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Intercellular wiring enables electron transfer between methanotrophic archaea and bacteria.
The anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) with sulfate controls the emission of the greenhouse gas methane from the ocean floor. In marine sediments, AOM is performed by dual-species consortia of anaerobic methanotrophic archaea (ANME) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) inhabiting the methane-sulfate transition zone. The biochemical pathways and biological adaptations enabling this globally relevant process are not fully understood. Here we study the syntrophic interaction in thermophilic AOM (TAOM) between ANME-1 archaea and their consortium partner SRB HotSeep-1 (ref. 6) at 60 °C to test the hypothesis of a direct interspecies exchange of electrons. The activity of TAOM consortia was compared to the first ANME-free culture of an AOM partner bacterium that grows using hydrogen as the sole electron donor. The thermophilic ANME-1 do not produce sufficient hydrogen to sustain the observed growth of the HotSeep-1 partner. Enhancing the growth of the HotSeep-1 partner by hydrogen addition represses methane oxidation and the metabolic activity of ANME-1. Further supporting the hypothesis of direct electron transfer between the partners, we observe that under TAOM conditions, both ANME and the HotSeep-1 bacteria overexpress genes for extracellular cytochrome production and form cell-to-cell connections that resemble the nanowire structures responsible for interspecies electron transfer between syntrophic consortia of Geobacter. HotSeep-1 highly expresses genes for pili production only during consortial growth using methane, and the nanowire-like structures are absent in HotSeep-1 cells isolated with hydrogen. These observations suggest that direct electron transfer is a principal mechanism in TAOM, which may also explain the enigmatic functioning and specificity of other methanotrophic ANME-SRB consortia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Intestinal Behçet's disease: epidemiology, pathophysiology and potential of mesalazine.
Behçet's disease (BD) is a systemic inflammatory disease of unknown origin that affects various parts of the body. In some patients, the prognosis of the disease appears to be altered by the involvement of the intestine (intestinal BD). In intestinal BD, deep ulcers develop in the gastrointestinal tract, typically in the ileocaecum. Intestinal lesions in patients with BD are much more common in countries in the Far East, especially Japan. The tissue damage occurring in patients with BD is believed to be caused by oxygen radicals, which are promoted by proinflammatory cytokines and arachidonic acid metabolites. New formulations of mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid; 5-ASA) are now available for the treatment of intestinal BD. Mesalazine breaks the chain reaction of free radical production. Mesalazine may provide an effective treatment for the promotion of long term healing of mucosal ulceration of the intestine in patients with BD. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Renal Ischemia and Function After Partial Nephrectomy: A Collaborative Review of the Literature.
Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the current gold standard treatment for small localized renal tumors.; however, the impact of duration and type of intraoperative ischemia on renal function (RF) after PN is a subject of significant debate. To review the current evidence on the relationship of intraoperative ischemia and RF after PN. A review of English-language publications on renal ischemia and RF after PN was performed from 2005 to 2014 using the Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Ninety-one articles were selected with the consensus of all authors and analyzed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. The vast majority of reviewed studies were retrospective, nonrandomized observations. Based on the current literature, RF recovery after PN is strongly associated with preoperative RF and the amount of healthy kidney parenchyma preserved. Warm ischemia time (WIT) is modifiable and prolonged warm ischemia is significantly associated with adverse postoperative RF. Available data suggest a benefit of keeping WIT <25min, although the level of evidence to support this threshold is limited. Cold ischemia safely facilitates longer durations of ischemia. Surgical techniques that minimize or avoid global ischemia may be associated with improved RF outcomes. Although RF recovery after PN is strongly associated with quality and quantity of preserved kidney, efforts should be made to limit prolonged WIT. Cold ischemia should be preferred when longer ischemia is expected, especially in presence of imperative indications for PN. Additional research with higher levels of evidence is needed to clarify the optimal use of renal ischemia during PN. In this review of the literature, we looked at predictors of renal function after surgical resection of renal tumors. There is a strong association between the quality and quantity of renal tissue that is preserved after surgery and long-term renal function. The time of interruption of renal blood flow during surgery is an important, modifiable predictor of postoperative renal function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A modified V-shaped incision combined with superficial musculo-aponeurotic system flap for parotidectomy.
V-shaped incision (VSI) for parotidectomy had been introduced for cosmetic purpose. Despite having aesthetic superiority, it required excessive retraction or an additional hairline incision for adequate surgical exposure. To overcome these problems, we conceptualized a modified VSI approach combined with a separate superficial musculo-aponeurotic system flap. This study aimed to propose this approach and evaluate its technical feasibility and efficacy for excision of parotid tumors. This is a prospective, nonrandomized study involving 74 patients with small-to-medium (<4 cm), benign parotid tumors located superficially. The patients were divided into two groups based on the incision techniques used: modified VSI and modified Blair incision (MBI). The clinical outcomes of both approaches for parotidectomy were analyzed. Thirty-four patients underwent modified VSI approach, while 40 underwent MBI. All parotidectomies with modified VSI were successfully completed without any further incision, and no facial nerve injury or intraoperative tumor rupture complication was reported. There were no significant differences in the complications between both approaches, such as hematoma, infection, wound dehiscence, skin necrosis, sialocele, or sensory disturbance. The modified VSI group showed better cosmetic satisfaction results than did the MBI group (9.2 and 7.8, respectively; p < .001). The modified VSI approach is safe and feasible for small-to-medium benign parotid tumors. This approach could be a possible option for patients with a high cosmetic demand. 4. Prospective pilot study. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Value of subcutaneous and intraperitoneal antibiotics in reducing infection in clean contaminated operations of the colon.
A prospective study of 443 patients undergoing clean contaminated operations of the colon was undertaken to determine the efficacy of subcutaneous and intraperitoneal antibiotics in reducing infection. All of the patients received a mechanical intestinal preparation as well as preoperative antibiotics taken orally and preoperative and postoperative antibiotics administered intravenously. The over-all wound infection rate was 2 per cent. The routine additional use of subcutaneous or intraperitoneal antibiotics had no proved efficacy in this study. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Label-free molecular beacon system based on DNAs containing abasic sites and fluorescent ligands that bind abasic sites.
A new class of label-free molecular beacon (MB) system based on DNA strands that contain abasic (AP) sites (AP-DNA) and adopt stem-loop structures, in combination with fluorescent ligands that bind these AP sites, has been developed. Unlike a conventional MB, which requires covalent labeling of the MB with a fluorophore and a quencher, the developed system (APMB) does not require covalent attachment of signal transduction units. Detailed sensing functions of a series of APMB systems were examined with the aid of the fluorescent ligand named ATMND to provide insight into the design strategy for APMB systems. The effects of the stem length and the position of the AP site in the stem moiety on the fluorescence response of the APMB system were examined. Genotyping of a G/C SNP of PCR amplification products was successfully demonstrated with the APMB system and blue-fluorescent ATMND as a ligand. The APMB system was further extended to a system that utilized green-fluorescent lumiflavin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Purification and immunochemical characterization of a 22 kilodalton surface antigen from Schistosoma mansoni.
A 22 kDa antigen (Sm22) was purified from schistosomula membrane extracts by immunoaffinity chromatography with monoclonal antibody M.2. Western blotting suggested that the epitope bound by M.2 required a specific conformational folding of the molecule, which was sensitive to reducing agents. Two-dimensional electrophoresis of purified Sm22 demonstrated that the single 22 kDa protein recognized by M.2 on one-dimensional gel analysis was composed of at least two isomorphs. Additional Western blotting showed that Sm2 was one of the major antigens recognized by mouse anti-irradiated cercariae serum, and that this same serum recognized at least one epitope which was not sensitive to reducing agents. The mice vaccinated with irradiated cercariae were shown to be 75% protected from cercarial challenge. Sera from a rabbit immunized with Sm22 contained antibodies which bound to the surface of schistosomula and detected a single protein at 22 kDa by immunoprecipitation or Western blot. The rabbit anti-Sm22 sera also immunoprecipitated a 22 kDa in vitro translation product, indicating that at least one epitope on Sm22 is not dependent on glycosylation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The induction of heat shock protein 70 in peripheral mononuclear blood cells in elderly patients: a role for inflammatory markers.
The induction of heat shock proteins (Hsp) is the response to a plethora of stress signals including hyperthermia, physical stress, and various disease states. Although changes in Hsp expression are associated with certain diseases, the question as to whether this is an adaptation to a particular pathophysiologic state or a reflection of the suboptimal cellular environment associated with the disease remains open. In this study we have investigated the effects of inflammatory mediators on the induction of Hsp 70 in human peripheral mononuclear blood cells using flow cytometry. We demonstrate that without heat shock, the levels of the inflammatory mediators are positively related to Hsp 70 production in monocytes. On the contrary, negative correlations were found between heat induced Hsp 70 production and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as well as various markers of inflammation. These observations are in agreement with the antagonistic effects between heat stress and the inflammatory mediators on the activation of Hsp promoter. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cohabitation of KP and full-length P elements in the genome of MR strains inducing P-M-like hybrid dysgenesis in Drosophila melanogaster.
P strains of Drosophila melanogaster are characterized by the presence of both full-length and deletion derivatives of the transposable element P in their genome, and by their ability to induce the syndrome of hybrid dysgenesis among the progeny of certain intra-strain crosses, when introduced through the male parents. In contrast, strains belonging to the M' class, and which were also found to bear P element-homologous sequences, lack this ability and this has been attributed to the presence in the genome of most of these strains of a distinct class of deletion derivatives termed KP, which can suppress the action of functional P factors. Here we demonstrate that KP elements are present, next to full-length ones, in the genome of at least three strains which induce P-M-like dysgenic symptoms, including GD sterility. KP elements form the majority of the P-homologous sequences in the strains MR-h12, 23.5/CyL4 and the latter's derivative 23.5*/Cy. While the first one is a genuine P strain and the second one depicts a strong P cytotype, the third is a genuine M' strain. The hybrid dysgenesis induced by the two 23.5 MRF strains seems to be due, not primarily to the P elements, but to the action of hobo elements. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Female adolescent craniofacial growth spurts: real or fiction?
The purpose of the study is to determine whether the various aspects of the craniofacial complex exhibit female adolescent growth spurts. Multilevel polynomial models were used to estimate the growth curves of a mixed-longitudinal sample of 111 untreated females 10-15 years of age. To evaluate the horizontal and vertical movements of the individual landmarks relative to stable structures, the tracings were superimposed on the natural reference structures in the anterior cranial base. The horizontal and vertical growth changes of four landmarks and the changes of three traditional linear measurements were evaluated. Posterior nasal spine (PNS) moved posteriorly at a constant rate of approximately 0.12mm/year. Five measures showed changes in growth velocity (i.e. quadratic growth curves) but not adolescent growth spurts, including the anterior movements of anterior nasal spine (ANS) and pogonion (Pg), the inferior movements of gonion (Go), and the increases in ANS-PNS and condylion to pogonion (Co-Pg). Five measurements, including the inferior movements of ANS, PNS and Pg, the posterior movements of Go, and the increases of Go-Pg exhibited adolescent growth spurts. Peak growth velocities were attained between 11.4 and 12.8 years of age, approximately 0.7-1.4 years earlier in the maxilla than mandible. While the vertical aspects of craniofacial growth exhibit distinct female adolescent growth spurts, with peak rates occurring earlier in the maxilla than mandible, most horizontal aspects of craniofacial growth do not exhibit an adolescent spurt. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Studies on xanthones from aerial parts of Polygala sibirica].
To investigate the chemical constituents of the aerial parts of Polygala sibirica systematically. The chemical constituents were isolated by various column chromatographic methods. The structures were identified by spectral data. Ten compounds were isolated and identified as 6-hydroxy-1, 2, 3, 7-tetramethoxy xanthone (1); 1, 2, 3, 6, 7-heptamethoxy xanthone (2); 1, 7-didydroxy-2, 3-methylenedioxy xanthone (3); 1, 7-dihydroxy-2, 3-dimethoxy xanthone (4); 1, 3, 7-trihydroxy-2-methoxy xanthone (5); 1, 6, 7-trihydroxy-2, 3-dimethoxy xanthone (6); alpha-spinasterol (7); alpha-spinasterolic-3-O-beta-D-glucoside (8); squalene (9) and polygital (10). Compounds 1-10 were isolated from this species for the first time. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Plasma homocysteine is a sensitive marker for tissue deficiency of both cobalamines and folates in a psychogeriatric population.
The concentration of blood folates was decreased and the concentration of plasma homocysteine was increased in a psychogeriatric population, whereas the concentrations of methylmalonic acid or serum cobalamins were not changed compared with healthy subjects. The highest frequency of abnormal values was shown by plasma homocysteine concentration, which was increased in 88 of 168 patients. In 29 of these 88 patients increased concentration of plasma homocysteine could possibly be attributed to tissue cobalamin deficiency. One patient had only a lowered concentration of blood folate. Thirteen patients had elevated concentrations of serum creatinine which could explain increased plasma homocysteine concentration. Even if the remaining patients (n = 45) had normal vitamin levels in circulation, the increased plasma homocysteine concentration in most cases must be attributed to tissue deficiency of cobalamins and/or folates. Thus, many patients with increased plasma homocysteine concentrations need further vitamin supplementation despite their normal vitamin levels in serum and blood. Copyrightz1999S.KargerAG,Basel | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Direct and rapid cytosolic delivery using cell-penetrating peptides mediated by pyrenebutyrate.
Intracellular delivery of bioactive molecules using arginine-rich peptides, including oligoarginine and HIV-1 Tat peptides, is a recently developed technology. Here, we report a dramatic change in the methods of internalization for these peptides brought about by the presence of pyrenebutyrate, a counteranion bearing an aromatic hydrophobic moiety. In the absence of pyrenebutyrate, endocytosis plays a major role in cellular uptake. However, the addition of pyrenebutyrate results in direct membrane translocation of the peptides yielding diffuse cytosolic peptide distribution within a few minutes. Using this method, rapid and efficient cytosolic delivery of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) was achieved in cells including rat hippocampal primary cultured neurons. Enhancement of bioactivity on the administration of anapoptosis-inducing peptide is also demonstrated. Thus, coupling arginine-rich peptides with this hydrophobic anion dramatically improved their ability to translocate cellular membranes, suggesting the great impact of this approach on exploring and controlling cell function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Childhood obesity affects fine motor skill performance under different postural constraints.
The main purpose of this study was to investigate fine motor control in obese and overweight children compared to normal-weight peers under different postural constraints. Peg placing performance of normal-weight (n=273), overweight (n=202) and obese (n=65) children (aged 5.0-12.8 years) was evaluated in two different postural conditions: sitting and standing in tandem stance on a balance beam (BB). Being overweight or obese was detrimental for fine motor skill performance in the standing on BB condition, which confirms the postural control difficulties observed in overweight and obese children. Remarkably, obese participants also produced lower scores in the sitting condition, i.e. when the complexity of postural organization was restricted to a minimum. Although this could result from the mechanical demands related to the movement of the arm itself, it also leads to the tentative suggestion that obese children might suffer from underlying perceptual-motor coordination difficulties. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Local anesthesia for surgery on the foot: efficacy in the ischemic or diabetic extremity.
The efficacy, risks, and benefits of the use of local anesthesia for surgery on the foot were assessed in 75 patients who underwent 127 procedures with lower calf, ankle, metatarsal-ray, and digital blocks. There were 23 procedures on digits alone, 97 forefoot operations (transmetatarsal amputations, wound debridements, closures, osteotomies, joint resections), six ankle or hind-foot amputations, and one open ankle disarticulation. There were no complications directly related to the use of local anesthesia; specifically, no extension of preexisting infection or ischemia due to injection in the foot. There were three deaths (30-day mortality 4%). The procedures were uniformly well tolerated, even in patients with ongoing myocardial ischemia or severe metabolic disorders. Local anesthesia is a safe and effective method to perform local debridement or amputation of the foot in an ischemic or diabetic extremity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of thyroxine and growth hormone treatment of dairy cows on mammary uptake of glucose, oxygen and other milk fat precursors.
Four cows received thyroxine injections (T4; 20 mg/d) and three cows received growth hormone injections (GH, 44 mg/d) for 4 d during successive 16-d experimental periods. Milk fat, lactose output, mammary uptake of glucose, oxygen and milk fat precursors were determined with each treatment. Injection of T4 increased lactose yield by 25% and fat yield 42%. The injection of GH increased fat and lactose yields by 24%. Both GH and T4 increased mammary glucose uptake by 35% and 45%, respectively, while T4 administration was associated with an increase in plasma glucose concentration from 67 to 84%. Thyroxine, but not GH, increased the ratio of mammary glucose uptake to lactose output from 1.24 to 1.58. Blood plasma acetate concentration declined following GH and T4 treatment by 17%. Mammary acetate uptake increased in response to GH injection in two of three cows but did not change with T4 injection. The injection of GH had no effect on plasma propionate concentration or mammary uptake. Thyroxine reduced plasma propionate content and mammary uptake. Neither T4 nor GH changed plasma free fatty acid concentration or mammary uptake. Thyroxine had no effect on plasma triglyceride concentration or mammary uptake, whereas GH increased mammary triglyceride uptake to the end of the experimental period. Mammary oxygen uptake was increased by GH as milk production increased. Increased mammary oxygen uptake following T4 treatment was transient. Change in mammary metabolism with T4 treatment permitted increased milk output without change in mammary oxygen consumption. Such a change may involve increased mammary utilization of pre-formed long-chain fatty acid and increased metabolism of glucose via glycolysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Anatomy of a rhinoplasty: emphasis on the middle third of the nose.
The nose is an organ that serves many functions. These functions are intimately involved in an organ that occupies a very aesthetically prominent position on the face. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy is of the utmost importance for surgeons attempting to preserve or improve the functional capability and the aesthetic appearance of the nose. Nasal anatomy is extremely complex with a myriad of different three-dimensional variances. The middle third of the nose has largely been overlooked in its importance. The components of this portions of the nose consist of the paired upper lateral cartilages, the dorsal aspect of the septum, and the scroll of the upper lateral cartilages upon the lower lateral cartilages. This area is of key importance to the nasal valve area and can have a major impact on the functional capabilities of the nose. A description of the confluence of the flare of the septum to the upper lateral cartilages is necessary for an understanding of changes that may occur during rhinoplastic operations. A knowledge of the anatomy of the middle third of the nose may prevent nasal valve collapse, a pinched appearance of this portion of the nose, or an aesthetically unappealing appearance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diffractive refractive optics: the possibility of sagittal focusing in Laue-case diffraction.
The sagittal deviation of a Laue-diffracted X-ray beam caused by the inclination of an exit crystal surface with respect to an entrance crystal surface has been studied both theoretically and experimentally. The use of this effect for sagittal focusing of X-ray synchrotron radiation diffracted by a Laue crystal is suggested. The focusing is based on the refraction effect due to the parabolic profile of an exit or/and entrance surface. The crystal is not bent. In order to achieve a reasonable focusing distance, the crystal should be cut asymmetrically. The experiment was performed at beamline BM5 at the ESRF. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Plastic surgery and the teenage patient.
Over the past year, the media have reported an increase in the number of teenagers undergoing plastic surgery, and with a tone of faint alarm have suggested that this merits some cultural self-scrutiny. This paper presents the statistics on the number and types of plastic surgery operations done in teenagers over the last eight years and discusses these in the context of cultural influences and societal concepts of beauty. The reason to have plastic surgery is psychological and involves body image, which is defined as the subjective perception of the body as it is seen through the mind's eye. To explain why changing the external appearance affects personality and behavior, the complex psychological reactions that occur after an operation that alters the size or shape of a body part are reviewed. Body image development occurs in stages, and puberty stands out as a particularly sensitive time as the teenager undergoes major changes in his or her physical appearance and does this at a time of heightened vulnerability to the opinion of others. Plastic surgery to correct a truly unattractive feature is enormously successful and remarkably free of conflict in this population. Teenagers undergo a rapid reorganization of their self-image after plastic surgery with subsequent positive changes in behavior and interpersonal interactions. The key to achieving success with plastic surgery is patient selection. The core value of the surgery lies not in the objective beauty of the visible result, but in the patient's opinion of and response to the change. Good patient management includes selecting candidates with clear and realistic expectations who are free of psychopathology. There must be true informed consent and attention to psychological issues must continue into the postoperative period. It is the responsibility of the patient's physician and plastic surgeon to recognize a need for psychiatric evaluation and to help the patient get this as needed. The eight operations most commonly done in the teenage population are rhinoplasty, ear surgery, reduction mammoplasty, surgery for asymmetric breasts, excision of gynecomastia, augmentation mammoplasty, chin augmentation, and suction assisted lipoplasty. Each of these is reviewed with regard to techniques, expectations, risks, and logistics. Guidelines for timing the referral of teenage patients for plastic surgery evaluation are given. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Oncogenic inflammation and autoimmune disease.
Many models exist to explain the induction and perpetuation of autoimmune diseases. Despite their validation in a variety of animal models, the basis for autoimmune disease in humans remains unknown. Here, we propose that an important aspect of autoimmune disease is the active participation of the target organ due to endogenously produced co-stimulatory factors that cause prolonged antigen presentation and lymphocyte activation. Evidence suggests that a major source of such endogenous signaling comes from newly transformed cells within the target organ that produce pro-inflammatory factors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mucosal immunity in liver autoimmunity: a comprehensive review.
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) all nestle within the umbrella term of autoimmune liver disease, in which the end result is immune-mediated hepatocellular or hepatobiliary injury. All three conditions are associated with gut inflammation; PSC and AIH being strongly linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and PBC to coeliac disease. This clinical observation has stimulated several intriguing pathogenic concepts in which gut commensals, pathogens and intestinal antigens are all implicated in causing liver injury. Th17-cells have also been linked to AIH, PBC and more recently PSC. Given that the intestine is a key regulator of immunopathogenic Th17 responses, this may underpin a common disease mechanism and open up novel treatment avenues based on rational targeting of immune pathways. Moreover, the discovery of long-lived mucosal memory T-cells being recruited to the liver in response to aberrantly expressed endothelial-cell adhesion molecules and chemokines, which are normally 'gut-restricted,' could plausibly explain why these diseases are associated with site-restricted tissue distributions and pave the way for therapeutic strategies based on modulating tissue specific lymphocyte homing. That particular gene-polymorphisms have been found which confer combined PSC/IBD susceptibility underscores the fundamental role of mucosal immunogenicity in disease pathogenesis. Mucosal lymphocytes may also play a pivotal role in graft versus host disease affecting the liver, and there is increasing evidence to support dysregulated mucosal immunity as being responsible for the hepatic manifestations of gluten-sensitive enteropathy, graft versus host disease, as wells as the pancreatobiliary manifestations of IgG4-related disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cardiac function in fetuses of type I diabetic mothers.
Cardiac function was cross-sectionally studied by means of M-mode and Doppler echocardiography in 40 fetuses of mothers with well-controlled insulin-dependent diabetes at 20 to 38 weeks of gestation. These variables were measured: interventricular septal thickness, ratio between the peak velocities during early passive ventricular filling and active atrial filling at the level of the atrioventricular valves, peak velocities, and the time to peak velocity at the level of the ascending aorta and the pulmonary artery. The values obtained were compared with our reference limits for gestation. A significant increase of interventricular septal thickness that was unrelated to maternal glycosylated hemoglobin levels was evidenced. Early passive ventricular filling/active atrial filling ratios were significantly lower in fetuses of diabetic mothers than in control fetuses. These differences were significantly related to interventricular septal thickness. No significant modifications were found in either aortic or pulmonary peak velocities or in time to peak velocity values. These findings suggest that in spite of an adequate metabolic control an interventricular septal hypertrophy that affects cardiac diastolic function develops in fetuses of diabetic mothers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Body mass index as a prognostic factor in development of infantile Blount disease.
Obesity has been associated with infantile Blount disease, yet no specific relationship has been established. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and the development of infantile Blount disease. A retrospective study was performed reviewing charts and radiographs of 69 consecutive children between 2 and 4 years old who presented during a 5-year period with the diagnosis of idiopathic genu varum. Forty-nine of these children were noted to have physiological bowing that resolved. Twenty children were diagnosed with infantile Blount disease that required treatment. Logistic regression analysis compared the 2 groups and showed no statistical difference between their age at presentation and age of walking. An independent group Student t test showed a significant statistical difference for body weight, BMI percentile, and weight for height percentile between children with physiological bowlegs and Blount disease. A highly significant difference between the 2 groups was shown in the patient's BMI, proximal tibial metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle, and tibial femoral angle. Based on these data, criteria were established for predicting Blount disease: a tibial metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle greater than or equal to 10 degrees and a BMI greater than or equal to 22. Using these criteria, this prediction method has a sensitivity of 95%, specificity of 100%, true-positive predictive value of 100%, and true-negative predictive value of 98%. The establishment of a statistically significant relationship between BMI and infantile Blount disease will be helpful to the orthopaedic surgeon in deciding which children would benefit from early treatment of bowlegs. In addition, nutritional counseling can be emphasized for those at risk. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Physical activity, eccentric contractions of plantar flexors, and neurogenesis: therapeutic potential of flat shoes in psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Using flat shoes with no heels results in stronger eccentric contractions of plantar flexors, which stimulate the rostral parts of the cerebellar vermis. The stimulation inhibits the limbic structures and increase neurogenesis. Physical activity often involves walking. Eccentric contractions during dorsal flexion of the plantar flexors in the stance phase of walking give rise to tension signals from Golgi tendon organs. The signals from the eccentric contractions are brought to the rostral parts of the cerebellar vermis. Electrical stimulation of the vermis inhibits the limbic structures and increases neurogenesis, and so do the signals from eccentric contractions. The use of heeled shoes results in less eccentric contractions with decreased neurogenesis. People in the Western World wore heeled shoes from the beginning of the 17th century, and, because of the decreased neurogenesis, the prevalence of diseases such as depression, epilepsia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, and myopia increased. Use of flat shoes produces stronger eccentric contractions and increases neurogenesis. This would lead to better protection from a range of diseases. Even therapy is possible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Essential fatty acid metabolism in patients with essential hypertension, diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease.
Mortality and morbidity from coronary heart disease (CHD), diabetes mellitus (DM) and essential hypertension (HTN) are higher in people of South Asian descent than in other groups. There is evidence to believe that essential fatty acids (EFAs) and their metabolites may have a role in the pathobiology of CHD, DM and HTN. Fatty acid analysis of the plasma phospholipid fraction revealed that in CHD the levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are low, in patients with HTN linoleic acid (LA) and AA are low, and in patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and diabetic nephropathy the levels of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), AA, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and DHA are low, all compared to normal controls. These results are interesting since DGLA, AA and EPA form precursors to prostaglandin E1, (PGE1), prostacyclin (PGI2), and PGI3, which are potent platelet anti-aggregators and vasodilators and can prevent thrombosis and atherosclerosis. Further, the levels of lipid peroxides were found to be high in patients with CHD, HTN, NIDDM and diabetic nephropathy. These results suggest that increased formation of lipid peroxides and an alteration in the metabolism of EFAs are closely associated with CHD, HTN and NIDDM in Indians.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Noninvasive blood pressure measurement on the temporal artery using the auscultatory method.
Blood pressures in the temporal artery of five normotensive subjects were recorded using a modified auscultatory setup. The setup comprised a pediatric cuff to occlude the artery and a piezoelectric contact microphone to record the Korotkoff sounds. Both the cuff and microphone were held in their respective positions with an adjustable head band. The recordings were taken under four different conditions: the subject lying supine, the subject sitting at rest, the subject sitting immediately after exercise and the subject moving the head gently. These recordings were compared with readings from the brachial artery, obtained with a commercially available automatic blood pressure measuring device. Korotkoff sounds were analyzed in the time and frequency domain. Results indicate that Korotkoff sounds in the temporal artery are much smaller in amplitude, and do not exhibit the same distinctive phases as those of the brachial artery. Despite these differences, these sounds can be used to detect blood pressures at head level. The accuracy of the readings was within +/- 10%. Successful readings were also obtained with gentle head motions, demonstrating that this setup has the potential to be developed into an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Temporal and spatial changes of urban impervious surface and its influence on urban ecolo-gical quality: A comparison between Shanghai and New York].
The urban spatial expansion has led to the considerable substitution of natural vegetation-dominated land surfaces by impervious surfaces, especially in large cities, with great impacts on urban ecological quality. Two most heavily populated cities, Shanghai of China and New York of USA, were chosen as the study cases. Based on Landsat images obtained in 1989, 2002, 2015 in Shanghai and in 1991, 2001, 2015 in New York, normalized difference impervious surface index (NDISI) was used to extract impervious surface (IS) information. The remote sensing based ecolo-gical index (RSEI) was then applied to evaluate the changes of urban ecological quality caused by the increased impervious surface. Furthermore, landscape pattern indices were used to analyze the differences of spatial structure of impervious surface between Shanghai and New York and their influences on urban ecological quality. The results showed a significant difference in urban expansion rate and pattern between Shanghai and New York from the early 1990s to 2015. The IS expansion area in Shanghai was 17.4 times as much as that in New York. The annual IS increase rate of Shanghai was 62.2 times as much as that of New York. Shanghai had experienced an expansion from urban center to the surrounding countryside in a concentric ring pattern, whereas New York showed no much expansion but had IS increase mainly within the inner city through space filling pattern. These differences in IS change rate and spatial distribution pattern had resulted in the difference in urban ecological quality of the two cities. The mean RSEI in Shanghai dropped from 0.717 in 1989 to 0.453 in 2015, with a decrease of 36.8%. In contrast, the RSEI of New York had a decline of 6.9% from 0.552 in 1991 to 0.514 in 2015. The poor ecological condition urban area tended to have large IS patches that were well connected and aggregated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Glomerulonephritis in children.
Children with glomerulonephritis may present with acute nephritic or nephrotic features. Glomerulonephritis may be a primary diagnosis or may be secondary to systemic illness. Children with persisting renal impairment, hypertension or proteinuria require careful investigation and assessment by a paediatric nephrologist. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[p53 and steroid receptors support double endometrial carcinogenesis].
This study investigated the p53 positivity correlated with the receptor status, in different grades and stages of endometrial carcinoma. The study included 88 endometrioid-type carcinomas and 5 non-endometrioid-type carcinomas. Paraffin sections were used for the ordinary histological diagnosis and for immunohistochemical diagnosis by avidin-biotin-peroxidase technique. p53 positivity was identified in 10 endometrioid-type carcinomas (11.4%) and 3 non-endometrioid type carcinomas (60%). Most of the p53 positive cases were receptor negative and observed in advanced stages and histological grades. No associated endometrial hyperplasia was p53 positive, while a positive intraepithelial non-endometrioid carcinoma was identified. p53 positivity is most frequently identified in non-endometrioid type, receptor negative adenocarcinomas, even in a precursor lesion as it is intraepithelial carcinoma, while in endometrioid, receptor positive carcinomas it appear in late stages of development, never being identified in precursor lesions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gas exchange consequences of left heart failure.
This review explores the pathophysiology of gas exchange abnormalities arising consequent to either acute or chronic elevation of pulmonary venous pressures. The initial experimental studies of acute pulmonary edema outlined the sequence of events from lymphatic congestion with edema fluid to frank alveolar flooding and its resultant hypoxemia. Clinical studies of acute heart failure (HF) suggested that hypoxemia was associated only with the final stage of alveolar flooding. However, in patients with chronic heart failure and normal oxygenation, hypoxemia could be produced by the administration of potent pulmonary vasodilators, suggesting that hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction is an important reflex for these patients. Patients with chronic left HF commonly manifest a reduced diffusing capacity, an abnormality that appears to be a consequence of chronic elevation of left atrial pressure. That reduction in diffusing capacity does not appear to be primarily attributable to increases in lung water but is improved by any sustained treatment that improves overall cardiac function. Patients with heart failure may also manifest an abnormally elevated VE/VCO2 during exercise, and that exercise ventilation abnormality arises as a consequence of both alveolar hyperventilation and elevated physiologic dead space. That elevated exercise VE/VCO2 in an HF patient has proven to be a powerful predictor of an adverse outcome and hence it has received sustained attention in the HF literature. At least three of the classes of drugs used to treat HF will normalize the exercise VE/VCO2, suggesting that the excessive ventilation response may be linked to elevated sympathetic activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Epidemiology of fibrous glass and lung cancer.
In a recent commentary, Infante et al. [1994] summarized some of the epidemiologic literature on the relationship between glass wool and lung cancer. They concluded that this material is carcinogenic for the lung in humans. A review of the commentary in comparison with the original papers covered reveals that their analysis was incomplete and characterized by selection bias. A more careful examination of the literature cited and other relevant publications shows that the data cited by Infante et al. are subject to the errors of chance and confounding and that the association when present is inconsistent, weak, and lacks a dose-response relationship. Therefore, a conclusion of causality cannot be justified. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Elbow Pain After a Fall: Nursemaid's Elbow or Fracture?
Nursemaid's elbow and elbow fractures are both common causes of acute elbow pain, but the mechanism of injury is quite different. In children, falls frequently go unwitnessed and children are often inaccurate when recounting the sequences of a fall, making the mechanism difficult to ascertain. A common clinical mistake is to treat all elbow injuries as a nursemaid's elbow. When the mechanism of injury is unknown, radiographs should be used to help make the diagnosis. Occult fractures, also known as "hairline" elbow fractures, may not be visible on initial X-rays, but clues to the diagnosis, especially the posterior fat pad, can be helpful in evaluation. When an occult fracture is suspected based on history and radiographic findings, the patient's elbow should be immobilized, not manipulated. This article also reviews successful reduction maneuvers for nursemaid's elbow. [Pediatr Ann. 2016;45(6):e214-e217.]. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The modified retrosigmoid approach: a how I do it.
The traditional retrosigmoid (RS) approach provides limited exposure of the inferior compartment of the CPA, while radical skull base approaches are demanding and associated with significant morbidity. This study outlines the relevant surgical anatomy and the different surgical steps of a modified retrosigmoid (MRS) approach. The MRS provides enhanced exposure of the CPA and deep vascular structures resulting from a modified RS craniotomy and limited exposure of the sigmoid sinus. In selected posterior fossa lesions, this cisternal approach is a straightforward corridor that can be routinely performed as a safe alternative to radical cranial base approaches. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Removal of oil from oil-in-saltwater emulsions by adsorption onto nano-alumina functionalized with petroleum vacuum residue.
Formation water from oilfields is one of the major environmental issues related to the oil industry. This research investigated oil adsorption onto nanoparticles of hydrophobic alumina and alumina nanoparticles functionalized with a petroleum vacuum residue (VR) at 2 and 4wt% to reduce the amount of oil in oil-saltwater emulsions at different pH values (5, 7 and 9). The initial concentration of crude oil in water ranged from 100 to 500mg/L. The change in oil concentration after adsorption was determined using a UV-vis spectrophotometer. The results indicated that all of the systems performed more effectively at a pH of 7 and using Al/4VR material. The oil adsorption was higher for neutral and acid systems compared with basic ones, and it was improved by increasing the amount of VR on the surface of the alumina. Additionally, the amount of NaCl adsorbed onto nanoparticles was estimated for different mixtures. The adsorption equilibrium and kinetics were evaluated using the Dubinin-Astakhov model, the Brunauer-Emmet-Teller model, and pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order models, with a better fitting to the Brunauer-Emmet-Teller model and pseudo-second-order model. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An update on trials of novel lipid-lowering drugs.
A number of novel trials have assessed the efficacy of new lipid-lowering therapies in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin-9 inhibitors reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 50-55%. A CVD outcome trial in patients with acute coronary syndromes with evolocumab achieved a LDL-C of 0.8 mmol/l (31 mg/dl) and a 20% relative risk reduction in CVD events in 2.2 years. Cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibitors raise high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and can lower LDL-C. Anacetrapib reduced coronary artery disease events by 7%, but not wider composite CVD outcomes, in a population with chronic CVD with pretreatment LDL-C of 1.6 mmol/l (62 mg/dl). The conflicting outcomes of cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibitor trials means these compounds are not being developed further. Trials using lipid drugs targeting inflammation have previously been generally unsuccessful, but recent data on the interleukin-1B receptor antagonist canakinumab has proven the concept of intervention on inflammation in atherosclerosis by showing a reduction in acute coronary interventions, but at the predictable cost of increased infections. Despite the success of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin-9 inhibition, the ability to achieve low LDL-C with off-patent medications and the costs of novel therapies will limit their use even in high-risk patients and confine them to the highest-risk sub-groups of patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prevention of stress-induced weight loss by third ventricle CRF receptor antagonist.
We previously reported that rats exposed to repeated restraint (3 h/day for 3 days) experience temporary hypophagia and a sustained reduction in body weight compared with nonrestrained controls. Studies described here determined the involvement of central corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptors in the initiation of this chronic response to acute stress. In experiment 1, Sprague-Dawley rats were fitted with cannulas in the lateral ventricle and infused with 50 micrograms of alphahCRF-(9-41) or saline immediately before restraint on each of the 3 days of restraint. The receptor antagonist inhibited hypophagia and weight loss on day 1 of restraint but not on days 2 and 3. In experiment 2, 10 micrograms of alphahCRF-(9-41) or saline were infused into the third ventricle immediately before each restraint. The receptor antagonist totally blocked stress-induced hypophagia and weight loss. These results demonstrate that CRF receptors located in or near the hypothalamus mediate the acute responses to stress that lead to a permanent change in the hormonal or metabolic processes that determine body weight and body composition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effect of stretching on the action potentials of the human and rabbit ventricular myocardium].
The effect of stretching from L0 to Lmax on the electrical activity was studied on human myocardial preparations from patients with heart disease and on strips of rabbit ventricular myocardium. Muscular deformation was shown to decrease the amplitude and velocity of depolarization in slow action potentials. The action potentials (AP) possessing a fast depolarization phase were not sensitive to physiological stretching. Antiarrhythmic drugs--ethmozin (2 X 10(-5) M) and ethacizin (2 X 10(-6) M)--caused a decrease in the rate of AP depolarization, thus increasing AP sensitivity to deformation. It is suggested that stretching under the action of ethmozin and ethacizin reduced cardiomyocyte excitability due to suppression of slow Ca-current. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Idiopathic Supraglottic Stenosis Refractory to Multiple Interventions Improved With Serial Office-based Steroid Injections.
The objective of this study was to describe a patient with idiopathic supraglottic stenosis who experienced persistent disease despite multiple office-based and operative interventions, whose disease is now better controlled with scheduled serial office-based steroid injections. This is a case report and literature review. A 42-year-old female was referred for worsening supraglottic stenosis despite systemic steroids. She underwent awake tracheotomy. A thorough historical, histologic, and laboratory workup did not reveal an etiology to her stenosis. She later underwent endoscopic partial laryngectomy and was able to be decannulated. She underwent a second endoscopic partial laryngectomy two years later for worsening disease and then was managed over the next seven years with intermittent systemic steroids. Over the last year, she has undergone eight office-based steroid injections with improvement in her degree of stenosis and symptom burden. There are only four prior reported cases of idiopathic supraglottic stenosis, none of which has been managed with serial office-based steroid injections. This case report adds to the small body of literature on the management of this rare disease and proposes a new office-based treatment pathway that may help induce regression of stenosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Volume- and calcium-activated chloride channels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
To characterize the properties of chloride currents and its modulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Using whole-cell patch-clamp recording techniques. Exposure of HUVEC to 13.5% and 27% hypotonic solution (HTS) induced a current ICl, vol. This current was correlated with the changes in cell volume and showed a modest outward rectification. It was slowly inactivated at positive potential (> 50 mV), and it was time- and voltage-independent in kinetics. The current densities (pA/pF) were 20 +/- 3 (13.5% HTS) and 58 +/- 4 (27% HTS, n = 7), respectively at +100 mV test potential. Applying GTP gamma s (300 mumol.L-1) elicited a current similar to ICl, vol, while cAMP (0.5 mmol.L-1) had no effect on the current. Increase in [Ca2+]i, either by directly loading cells with high concentration of Ca2+ (CaCl2), or by perfusing vasoactive agonist ATP (10 mumol.L-1), activated ICl, Ca. The current density was only (23 +/- 5) pA/pF (n = 8 cells). Such current was slowly activated at positive potential, inactivated quickly at negative potential, and showed strong outward rectification. Both currents were inhibited by DIDS and verapamil. Challenging a cell with elevated [Ca2+]i and HTS activated ICl, vol on the top of ICl, Ca in the same cell, suggested co-existence of these two currents and that they were modulated by different ways. cAMP-regulated chloride channel and ClC (chloride channel family) channel were absent. HUVEC express two kinds of chloride channels, ICl, vol activated by change in cell volume and ICl, Ca by elevation of [Ca2+]i, respectively. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cervical carcinoma and pregnancy in a young primipara.
Cervical carcinoma is the fourth most common malignant disease in women, after breast, lung and colon cancer. It is present in two-thirds of all malignant diseases of the genital tract. Although in most of Europe patients are subjected to regular health screening, diagnoses of severe life-threatening alterations are often made when they are already in late stages. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Serum creatine kinase B subunit levels in neurogenic atrophies.
This study is an attempt to determine the creatine kinase B (CK-B) subunit levels in neurogenic atrophies. A group of 69 patients was studied and the results were compared with those in a group of 32 patients with muscle disease. The results showed that the CK-B levels are considerably higher in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (P less than 0.001) and peroneal muscular atrophy (P less than 0.001). Further studies in the various subgroups of neurogenic atrophies showed that, regardless of the nosological entity, the CK-B activity is considerably higher: (1) in the "widespread" as opposed to "limited" forms (P less than 0.001); (2) in the "chronic" than in the "acute" neurogenic atrophies (P less than 0.001); and (3) in the "active" as opposed to "residual" forms (P less than 0.02). It is suggested that the increase of CK-B in neurogenic atrophies is a strong indication of an active regeneration process in the denervated muscle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biological approaches to treatment-resistant obsessive compulsive disorder.
Biological approaches to the patient with treatment-resistant obsessive compulsive disorder are briefly reviewed. The most commonly employed strategy involves combining a potent serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) (e.g., clomipramine or fluvoxamine) with another medication that may exert effects on the brain serotonin system. Open-label reports regarding the addition of tryptophan, fenfluramine, lithium, or buspirone to ongoing SRI therapy of obsessive compulsive disorder are encouraging. However, the anti-obsessive compulsive efficacy of SRI-lithium and SRI-buspirone combination therapy has not been confirmed in recent controlled trials. Preliminary evidence suggests that addition of neuroleptic may benefit SRI-refractory obsessive compulsive disorder patients who have a comorbid chronic tic disorder. Other biological approaches (e.g., electroconvulsive therapy and psychosurgery) are considered in terms of their narrowly defined roles in the treatment of patients with SRI-resistant obsessive compulsive disorder. Finally, an algorithm is proposed for those patients with obsessive compulsive disorder who fail to respond to an adequate trial with a potent SRI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The optimization of instrumental hemofiltration].
47 hemofiltration procedures were performed in 10 patients. A self-made balancer based on the volumic hydrodynamics dependent on substitute from filtrate was used. An APD-02 peritoneal dialysis machine served the source of the substitute. It provided change of the concentration and was used for prophylaxis of osmodisturbances, massive dehydration and for obtaining bicarbonate substitute. The technology for F-60 cartridges reuse has been elaborated and tested. One of the patients received the isolated hemofiltration programme for more than 2 months. Antiuremic efficacy of hemofiltration was studied. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
How to organise teaching activities for the scoring of cardiorespiratory polygraphies? Experiences from three Swedish Sleep Society teaching courses.
Education in the scoring of sleep-disordered breathing is organised differently and data on the evaluation of teaching strategies based on student ratings are sparse. The aim of the study was to analyse the gain in theoretical and practical knowledge achieved during different course settings offered by a national sleep society. The course contained 1 hr of theoretical teaching (scoring rules and recording methodology) and 2.5 hr of practical scoring (physiological breathing, obstructive/central sleep apnea and hypoventilation). Three different settings were provided: a large scoring group including participants with mixed experiences (1), a small scoring group with inexperienced scorers (2), and guided scoring for experienced scorers (3). Evaluation was performed at the end of the course. Data from 67 out of 82 participants (79%) were analysed (42 nurses/technicians and 25 physicians/dentists). Previous scoring experience was limited, moderate and extended in 25, 26, and 15 students, respectively. Gain of practical knowledge and overall course rating were significantly higher in settings 2 and 3 compared with 1 (p = 0.005 and p = 0.018 respectively). Guided scoring was the preferred practical teaching setting in experienced scorers, whereas scoring in large groups together with an experienced student was preferred in newcomers. Profession did not influence gain of knowledge, course satisfaction or preferred course design. From the student's perspective, consensus scoring in groups or guided scoring for all students may have advantages compared with single/small-group scoring settings. Technical teaching knowledge of faculty members is of significant importance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Brain electrical activity from encoding to retrieval while maintaining and manipulating information in working memory.
Differences between working memory maintenance (Mt) and manipulation (Mp) have been studied, mostly in the absence of stimuli (delay period); encoding and retrieval phases have been less explored. The present study assessed differences between Mt and Mp, by means of event-related potentials (ERPs) and event-related synchronisation (ERS) and desynchronisation (ERD) for theta, alpha and beta bands at: encoding, delay period and retrieval; using a delayed-match to sample task (DMST). Twenty-six young volunteers solved two DMST conditions (one for Mt and one for Mp). Higher behavioural accuracy for Mt than for Mp was observed. At encoding, higher amplitude for Mt at posterior regions to N1, P2 and P3 components were observed. In the delay period, differences in ERP components and frontal theta ERD were observed. Meanwhile, at retrieval, P3 amplitude and latency, as well as the theta band were modulated by both process (Mt or Mp) and type of trial (target or non-target stimuli). These findings mainly suggest different attentional implications at encoding, differences at the delay period related with task difficulty, and differential retrieval for Mt or Mp dependent on the process which the information comes from, suggesting that Mt and Mp differ at the very beginning of the processing. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Results of nine years of the clinical and epidemiological survey on cryptococcosis in Colombia, 1997-2005].
A national survey on cryptococcosis has been conducted in Colombia since 1997. The survey data recorded over a 9-year period, 1997 to 2005, was summarized. The format provided by the European Confederation of Medical Mycology was adapted with the correspondent permission. Over the 9 year period, 931 surveys were received from 76 centers. The associated disease syndromes were as follows: 891 (95.7%) were neurocryptococosis cases, 27 (2.9%) pulmonary disease, 5 (0.5%) cutaneous lesions, 2 (0.2%) ganglionar forms, 2 (0.2%) oropharyngeal lesions and one case (0.1%) each from peritonitis, liver lesion, cellulitis and urinary tract infection. Demographic data indicated 82.7% of the subjects were males, and 59.4% were between 20-39 years old; 25 children less than 16 years old were reported. The prevalent risk factor was HIV infection (78.1%). The mean annual incidence rate of cryptococcosis in the general population was 2.4 X 106 inhabitants, but in AIDS patients the rate rose to one in 3 X 103. The most frequent clinical features were headache (85.2%), nausea and vomiting (59.1%), fever (59.0%), mental changes (46.2%), meningeal signs (33.4%), cough (23.6%) and visual alterations or loss of vision (20.9%). Laboratory data showed that direct examination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was positive in 92.8% cases and Cryptococcus was recovered in 90.3% of the cases. Cryptococcal antigen reactivity was 98.9% in CSF and 93.7% in serum samples. From 788 isolates submitted, 95.9% were C. neoformans var. grubii serotype A, 0.3% var. neoformans serotype D, 3.3% C. gattii serotype B and 0.5% C. gattii serotype C. The majority of patients were treated initially with amphotericin B. Cryptococcosis incidence has increased dramatically in Colombia with the AIDS pandemic and it can be considered as a sentinel marker for HIV infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A preliminary study of breast-feeding and maternal symptomatology.
The association between breast-feeding status and maternal health is examined. A survey questionnaire was presented via the World Wide Web. Self-reports of 168 breast-feeding and 65 weaned mothers between 4 and 208 weeks postpartum were compared for physician visits, symptomatology, and Perceived Stress Scale scores in the last month. Breast-feeding was associated with fewer physician visits and symptoms and less perceived stress. Moreover, the longer a woman breast-fed before she weaned, the fewer the symptoms and less stress she reported. Breast-feeding is associated with better maternal health both during the breast-feeding period and after weaning. Further research on the effects on maternal health of breast-feeding is indicated. Future prospective longitudinal investigations should address the possible inhibition of lactation by stress and physiological mechanisms that may link breast-feeding and weaning with maternal health. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ankle Arthroscopy Simulation Improves Basic Skills, Anatomic Recognition, and Proficiency During Diagnostic Examination of Residents in Training.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether low-fidelity arthroscopic simulation training improves basic ankle arthroscopy performance and efficiency among orthopedic trainees. Twenty-nine orthopedic surgery trainees with varying levels of experience in ankle arthroscopy were randomized into either simulation or standard practice groups. At baseline testing, all participants performed simulator-based testing and a cadaveric diagnostic ankle arthroscopy with video recording. The simulation group subsequently received 4 one-on-one, 15-minute simulation training sessions over a 4-month period, while the standard practice group received no additional simulation training or exposure. After intervention, both groups were reevaluated with simulator testing and a second recorded cadaveric diagnostic ankle arthroscopy. Two blinded, independent experts evaluated each randomized arthroscopic performance using the 15-point checklist, Arthroscopic Surgery Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET), and total elapsed time, and all outcome measures were compared within and between groups. Baseline arthroscopic experience, simulator task performance measures, and ASSET scores were equivalent between the simulation and standard practice groups. After completion of training, the simulation group outscored the control group in total ASSET score (34.9 vs 19.6; P < .001) and checklist score (14.5 vs 8.4; P < .001) and achieved nearly expert ASSET Safety scores (4.7 vs 2.9; P < .001) on the simulator model. Cadaver testing also demonstrated significant improvements in total ASSET score (28.8 vs 16.8; P < .001), checklist score (12.6 vs 7.1; P < .001), and ASSET Safety score (3.9 vs 2.6; P < .001). These results demonstrate that low-fidelity ankle arthroscopy simulation training can improve basic surgical skills, efficiency of movement, and anatomic recognition. The results suggest greater patient safety during ankle arthroscopy following simulation training. Level I, prospective comparative study. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mapping quantum yield for (Fe-Zn-Sn-Ti)Ox photoabsorbers using a high throughput photoelectrochemical screening system.
Combinatorial synthesis and screening of light absorbers are critical to material discoveries for photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical applications. One of the most effective ways to evaluate the energy-conversion properties of a semiconducting light absorber is to form an asymmetric junction and investigate the photogeneration, transport and recombination processes at the semiconductor interface. This standard photoelectrochemical measurement is readily made on a semiconductor sample with a back-side metallic contact (working electrode) and front-side solution contact. In a typical combinatorial material library, each sample shares a common back contact, requiring novel instrumentation to provide spatially resolved and thus sample-resolved measurements. We developed a multiplexing counter electrode with a thin layer assembly, in which a rectifying semiconductor/liquid junction was formed and the short-circuit photocurrent was measured under chopped illumination for each sample in a material library. The multiplexing counter electrode assembly demonstrated a photocurrent sensitivity of sub-10 μA cm(-2) with an external quantum yield sensitivity of 0.5% for each semiconductor sample under a monochromatic ultraviolet illumination source. The combination of cell architecture and multiplexing allows high-throughput modes of operation, including both fast-serial and parallel measurements. To demonstrate the performance of the instrument, the external quantum yields of 1819 different compositions from a pseudoquaternary metal oxide library, (Fe-Zn-Sn-Ti)Ox, at 385 nm were collected in scanning serial mode with a throughput of as fast as 1 s per sample. Preliminary screening results identified a promising ternary composition region centered at Fe0.894Sn0.103Ti0.0034Ox, with an external quantum yield of 6.7% at 385 nm. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evidence for Biotic Perchlorate Reduction in Naturally Perchlorate-Rich Sediments of Pilot Valley Basin, Utah.
The presence of perchlorate on Mars suggests a possible energy source for sustaining microbial life. Perchlorate-reducing microbes have been isolated from perchlorate-contaminated soils and sediments on the Earth, but to date, never from an environment that is naturally enriched in perchlorate. The arid Pilot Valley paleolake basin in Utah is a Mars analog environment whose sediments are naturally enriched with up to ∼6.5 μg kg-1 perchlorate oxyanions. Here, we present results of field and laboratory studies indicating that perchlorate-reducing microorganisms co-occur with this potential electron acceptor. Biogeochemical data suggest ongoing perchlorate reduction; phylogenetic data indicate the presence of diverse microbial communities; and laboratory enrichments using Pilot Valley sediments show that resident microbes can reduce perchlorate. This is the first article of the co-existence of perchlorate-reducing microbes in an environment where perchlorate occurs naturally, arguing for Pilot Valley's utility as an analog for studying biogeochemical processes that may have occurred, and may yet still be occurring, in ancient martian lacustrine sediments. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The First 2 Years of Activity of a Specialized Organ Procurement Center: Report of an Innovative Approach to Improve Organ Donation.
The number of patients requiring organ transplants continues to outgrow the number of organs donated each year. In an attempt to improve the organ donation process and increase the number of organs available, we created a specialized multidisciplinary team within a specialized organ procurement center (OPC) with dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) beds and operating rooms. The OPC was staffed with ICU nurses, operating room nurses, organ donor management ICU physicians, and multidisciplinary staff. All organ donors within a designated geographic area were transferred to and managed within the OPC. During the first 2 years of operation, 126 patients were referred to the OPC. The OPC was in use for a total of 3527 h and involved 253 health workers. We retrieved 173 kidneys, 95 lungs, 68 livers, 37 hearts, and 13 pancreases for a total of 386 organs offered for transplantation. This translates to a total of 124.6 persons transplanted per million population, which compares most favorably to recently published numbers in developed countries. The OPC clearly demonstrates potential to increase the number of deceased donor organs available for transplant. Further studies are warranted to better understand the exact influence of the different components of the OPC on organ procurement. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Autologous Fat Grafting's Effect on Edema and Ecchymoses in Primary Open Rhinoplasty.
Autologous fat is a safe and effective soft tissue filler. Recent evidence also suggests improved wound healing and immune modulation with fat grafting. The aim of this study is to describe a novel technique, using fat grafting during primary open rhinoplasty. We hypothesize a more rapid resolution of bruising and edema. Patients undergoing rhinoplasty were reviewed, and compared by presence or absence of concurrent fat grafting. 3D images were analyzed using Mirror (Vectra, Canfield Scientific, NJ). Ecchymoses were outlined utilizing a magnetic lasso followed by an area measurement. Volumetric edema measurements were also taken and assessed. Edema and ecchymosis were measured at two weeks postoperatively and six weeks postoperatively. Significance was defined as p=0.05. Sixty-two patients were included. Thirty-three patients (53.2%) received autologous fat grafting and 29 (46.8%) did not. Age, gender, surgical approach, and osteotomy distribution was similar between the groups. The fat grafted group showed 7.29 cm2 fewer ecchymoses (p<0.001) and 0.73cc less edema, (p=0.68) in the early postoperative interval. Six weeks postoperatively, the fat grafted group showed 1cc lower amount of edema (p=0.36) with negligible differences in bruising. Autologous fat grafting is a useful adjunct to rhinoplasty and is associated with a significantly lower amount of ecchymoses in the acute postoperative period. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Activation of the transcription factor Gli1 and the Sonic hedgehog signalling pathway in skin tumours.
Sporadic basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of malignant cancer in fair-skinned adults. Familial BCCs and a fraction of sporadic BCCs have lost the function of Patched (Ptc), a Sonic hedgehog (Shh) receptor that acts negatively on this signalling pathway. Overexpression of Shh can induce BCCs in mice. Here we show that ectopic expression of the zinc-finger transcription factor Gli1 in the embryonic frog epidermis results in the development of tumours that express endogenous Gli1. We also show that Shh and the Gli genes are normally expressed in hair follicles, and that human sporadic BCCs consistently express Gli1 but not Shh or Gli3. Because Gli1, but not Gli3, acts as a target and mediator of Shh signalling, our results suggest that expression of Gli1 in basal cells induces BCC formation. Moreover, loss of Ptc or overexpression of Shh cannot be the sole causes of Gli1 induction and sporadic BCC formation, as they do not occur consistently. Thus any mutations leading to the expression of Gli1 in basal cells are predicted to induce BCC formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interleukin-1 production by transformed fibroblasts. II. Influence on antigen presentation and T-cell-mediated anti-tumor response.
Oncogene-transformed fibroblasts which expressed IL-1, spontaneously or after activation with conditioned medium (CM) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), regressed in the syngeneic host. Since regression was significantly influenced by the immune competence of the host (see companion report), we speculated that regression was T-cell-mediated. Frequencies of cytotoxic T-cell precursors (CTLp) were in the same range for activated and non-activated, transformed fibroblasts. Furthermore, it was found that lysability of transformed fibroblasts was not influenced by expression of IL-1. These findings exclude the possibility that regression of CM- and LPS-treated transformed fibroblasts may have been due to the appearance of new, strongly immunogenic epitopes. On the other hand, frequencies of CTL were significantly increased after in vivo immunization with IL-1-expressing as compared to IL-1-non-expressing transformed fibroblasts. The in vivo maturation/expansion of CTL could have been the consequence of activation of helper T cells (TH), transformed fibroblast-associated IL-1 delivering the costimulatory signal. Analysis of frequencies and proliferation rates of TH confirmed this assumption. Both parameters were significantly increased after stimulation with transformed fibroblasts expressing IL-1 in comparison to transformed fibroblasts not expressing IL-1. Furthermore, purified T cells apparently depleted of cells expressing MHC class-II antigens, i.e. antigen-presenting cells, proliferated in the presence of transformed fibroblasts expressing IL-1. Since IL-1 rather than MHC class-II antigen expression was the limiting factor, antigen presentation by IL-1-expressing transformed fibroblasts appears unlikely. Instead, maturation of antigen-presenting cells could well have been initiated by tumor-associated IL-1. We conclude that IL-1 expression of transformed fibroblasts plays an important role in the induction of a T-cell-mediated anti-tumor response. The effect is due to increased efficiency in the activation of helper T cells and may be supported by activation of antigen-presenting cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Milnacipran inhibits itch-related responses in mice through the enhancement of noradrenergic transmission in the spinal cord.
We investigated whether milnacipran, a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, exhibits an antipruritic effect through the spinal action in mice. Intrathecal injections of milnacipran (0.1 - 10 μg/site) significantly suppressed serotonin-induced biting, which is an itch-related response. However, such an effect was not observed with fluvoxamine (10 μg/site), which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Furthermore, an intraperitoneal injection of milnacipran (10 mg/kg) inhibited serotonin-induced biting. When phentolamine (1.0 μg/site), a non-selective α-adrenoceptor antagonist, was intrathecally injected, it inhibited the above response of milnacipran. These results suggest that milnacipran suppresses itching through the inhibition of noradrenaline reuptake in the spinal cord. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hysteresis Phenomena in the Study of Sorptive Deformation of Sorbents
A combined experimental approach comprising up-to-date high-sensitivity methods was used to reveal the factors causing the sorptive hysteresis that occurs in sorption. The dilatometric method was used for the first time to study the sorptive deformation hysteresis of sorbents. On the basis of the results obtained, it was suggested that sorbent deformation may be the universal cause of sorptive hysteresis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alpha2-adrenergic activation in the lateral parabrachial nucleus induces NaCl intake under conditions of systemic hyperosmolarity.
The inhibition of sodium intake by increased plasma osmolarity may depend on inhibitory mechanisms present in the lateral parabrachial nucleus. Activation of alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors in the lateral parabrachial nucleus is suggested to deactivate inhibitory mechanisms present in this area increasing fluid depletion-induced 0.3 M NaCl intake. Considering the possibility that lateral parabrachial nucleus inhibitory mechanisms are activated and restrain sodium intake in animals with increased plasma osmolarity, in the present study we investigated the effects on water and 0.3 M NaCl intake produced by the activation of alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors in the lateral parabrachial nucleus in rats with increased plasma osmolarity. Male Holtzman rats with stainless steel cannulas implanted bilaterally into the lateral parabrachial nucleus were used. One hour after intragastric 2 M NaCl load (2 ml), bilateral injections of moxonidine (alpha(2)-adrenergic/imidazoline receptor agonist, 0.5 nmol/0.2 microl, n=10) into the lateral parabrachial nucleus induced a strong ingestion of 0.3 M NaCl intake (19.1+/-5.5 ml/2 h vs. vehicle: 1.8+/-0.6 ml/2 h), without changing water intake (15.8+/-3.0 ml/2 h vs. vehicle: 9.3+/-2.0 ml/2 h). However, moxonidine into the lateral parabrachial nucleus in satiated rats not treated with 2 M NaCl produced no change on 0.3 M NaCl intake. The pre-treatment with RX 821002 (alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor antagonist, 20 nmol/0.2 microl) into the lateral parabrachial nucleus almost abolished the effects of moxonidine on 0.3 M NaCl intake (4.7+/-3.4 ml/2 h). The present results suggest that alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor activation in the lateral parabrachial nucleus blocks inhibitory mechanisms, thereby allowing ingestion of hypertonic NaCl under conditions of extracellular hyperosmolarity. We suggest that during cell dehydration, circuits subserving sodium appetite are activated, but at the same time strongly inhibited through the lateral parabrachial nucleus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pre-operative classification of abdominal aortic aneurysms with spiral CT: the axial source images revisited.
The differentiation of supra-, juxta- and high infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), which is essential for good surgical management, remains problematic. This prospective study assessed the value of highly overlapping vs. contiguous axial spiral computed tomography (CT) reconstructions in the pre-operative assessment of AAA. Thirty-five patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms were studied with spiral CT (10 mm collimation, pitch 1). Axial reconstructions were performed at 2 and 10 mm increments and compared with surgical findings. Using each protocol, the aneurysms were classified as infra-, juxta- or suprarenal. Observers also assessed visualization of main and accessory renal artery origins and identification of other surgically relevant vascular anomalies. The 2 mm protocol correctly identified 29/31 infrarenal, 3/3 juxtarenal and 1/1 suprarenal aneurysms; two infrarenal aneurysms were overestimated as suprarenal. The 10 mm protocol correctly classified 25/31 infrarenal, 3/3 juxtarenal and 1/1 suprarenal aneurysms; five infrarenal aneurysms were overestimated as juxtarenal (n = 3) or suprarenal (n = 2) and one case was equivocal. Correct classification was thus 94% using the 2 mm protocol and 83% with the 10 mm protocol (P = 0.063). All 70 main renal artery origins were visualized with the 2 mm protocol, while the 10 mm protocol missed six (P = 0.03) The 2 mm protocol identified 10 accessory renal arteries, four of which were missed by the 10 mm protocol. Both protocols demonstrated five surgically relevant venous anomalies. Spiral CT with highly overlapping axial reconstructions correctly classified 94% of abdominal aortic aneurysms; overlapping reconstructions were particularly useful in differentiating high infrarenal from juxtarenal aneurysms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vivo-like antigenic surface properties of Staphylococcus aureus from bovine mastitis induced upon growth in milk whey.
Antigenic surface properties of Staphylococcus aureus strains grown in milk whey were compared with TSB-grown bacteria using immuno-gold electron microscopy. It is shown that colloidal gold (CG) particles coated with polyclonal antibody raised against Staphylococcus aureus surface antigen expressed in vivo bound to the surface of S. aureus strain F1440 grown in milk whey, but not to homologous bacteria grown in TSB. S. aureus strains grown in milk whey agglutinated in the presence of the polyclonal antibody, whereas the corresponding bacteria grown in TSB did not agglutinate. Immuno-gold particles did not bind to milk whey-grown bacteria treated with periodate. Periodate-treated milk whey-grown bacteria did not agglutinate in the presence of the polyclonal antibody, whereas periodate treatment had no effect on TSB-grown bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A Low-Power Wearable Stand-Alone Tongue Drive System for People With Severe Disabilities.
This paper presents a low-power stand-alone tongue drive system (sTDS) used for individuals with severe disabilities to potentially control their environment such as computer, smartphone, and wheelchair using their voluntary tongue movements. A low-power local processor is proposed, which can perform signal processing to convert raw magnetic sensor signals to user-defined commands, on the sTDS wearable headset, rather than sending all raw data out to a PC or smartphone. The proposed sTDS significantly reduces the transmitter power consumption and subsequently increases the battery life. Assuming the sTDS user issues one command every 20 ms, the proposed local processor reduces the data volume that needs to be wirelessly transmitted by a factor of 64, from 9.6 to 0.15 kb/s. The proposed processor consists of three main blocks: serial peripheral interface bus for receiving raw data from magnetic sensors, external magnetic interference attenuation to attenuate external magnetic field from the raw magnetic signal, and a machine learning classifier for command detection. A proof-of-concept prototype sTDS has been implemented with a low-power IGLOO-nano field programmable gate array (FPGA), bluetooth low energy, battery and magnetic sensors on a headset, and tested. At clock frequency of 20 MHz, the processor takes 6.6 s and consumes 27 nJ for detecting a command with a detection accuracy of 96.9%. To further reduce power consumption, an application-specified integrated circuit processor for the sTDS is implemented at the postlayout level in 65-nm CMOS technology with 1-V power supply, and it consumes 0.43 mW, which is 10 lower than FPGA power consumption and occupies an area of only 0.016 mm. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
H3-/IDH-wild type pediatric glioblastoma is comprised of molecularly and prognostically distinct subtypes with associated oncogenic drivers.
Pediatric glioblastoma (pedGBM) is an extremely aggressive pediatric brain tumor, accounting for ~6% of all central nervous system neoplasms in children. Approximately half of pedGBM harbor recurrent somatic mutations in histone 3 variants or, infrequently, IDH1/2. The remaining subset of pedGBM is highly heterogeneous, and displays a variety of genomic and epigenetic features. In the current study, we aimed to further stratify an H3-/IDH-wild type (wt) pedGBM cohort assessed through genome-wide molecular profiling. As a result, we identified three molecular subtypes of these tumors, differing in their genomic and epigenetic signatures as well as in their clinical behavior. We designated these subtypes 'pedGBM_MYCN' (enriched for MYCN amplification), 'pedGBM_RTK1' (enriched for PDGFRA amplification) and 'pedGBM_RTK2' (enriched for EGFR amplification). These molecular subtypes were associated with significantly different outcomes, i.e. pedGBM_RTK2 tumors show a significantly longer survival time (median OS 44 months), pedGBM_MYCN display extremely poor outcomes (median OS 14 months), and pedGBM_RTK1 tumors harbor an intermediate prognosis. In addition, the various molecular subtypes of H3-/IDH-wt pedGBM were clearly distinguishable from their adult counterparts, underlining their biological distinctiveness. In conclusion, our study demonstrates significant molecular heterogeneity of H3-/IDH-wt pedGBM in terms of DNA methylation and cytogenetic alterations. The recognition of three molecular subtypes of H3-/IDH-wt pedGBM further revealed close correlations with biological parameters and clinical outcomes and may therefore, be predictive of response to standard treatment protocols, but could also be useful for stratification for novel, molecularly based therapies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Discovery and characterization of an antibody directed against exosite I of thrombin.
ESSENTIALS: An IgA paraprotein with anti-thrombin activity was not associated with a severe bleeding phenotype. This observation challenges the paradigm that anticoagulant therapy necessarily increases bleeding risk. Characterization of the antibody showed that it specifically binds to thrombin exosite I. A therapeutic drug with the properties of this antibody might be an antithrombotic that doesn't cause bleeding. We report the case of a 54-year-old female who presented with a traumatic subdural hemorrhage. Coagulation tests were markedly prolonged due to the presence of an anti-thrombin IgA paraprotein at 3 g L(-1) . The patient made a complete recovery and has had no abnormal bleeding during a 7-year follow-up, despite the persistence of the paraprotein. To determine how the paraprotein prolonged clotting tests by defining its target and its epitope. The paraprotein was purified and added to normal pooled plasma for in vitro clotting assays. Binding studies were conducted to determine the affinity of the IgA for thrombin. The Fab was isolated and crystallized with thrombin. The purified IgA was sufficient to confer the patient's in vitro coagulation profile in normal pooled plasma, and was found to bind specifically and with high affinity to thrombin. A crystal structure of the Fab fragment in complex with thrombin revealed an exosite I interaction involving CDRH3 of the antibody. Although the patient originally presented with a subdural bleed, the hematoma resolved without intervention, and no other bleeding event occurred during the subsequent 7 years. During this period, the patient's IgA paraprotein levels have remained constant at 3 g L(-1) , suggesting that the presence of a high-affinity, exosite I-directed antibody is consistent with normal hemostasis. A therapeutic derivative of this antibody might therefore permit antithrombotic dose escalation without an associated increase in the risk of bleeding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combination of biodegradable stent placement and single-dose brachytherapy is associated with an unacceptably high complication rate in the treatment of dysphagia from esophageal cancer.
For the palliative treatment of dysphagia, esophageal stent placement provides immediate improvement, whereas brachytherapy offers better long-term relief. To evaluate safety and efficacy of concurrent brachytherapy and biodegradable stent placement. Prospective, single-arm study. Two tertiary-care referral centers. Nineteen consecutive patients with significant dysphagia resulting from unresectable esophageal cancer, with a life expectancy of more than 3 months. Single-dose brachytherapy (12 Gy) on day 1 followed by biodegradable stent placement on day 2. Intervention-related major complications (determined by an expert panel) and dysphagia. Nineteen patients (13 men, median age 66 years [interquartile range (IQR) 59-71] years) were included; 7 patients (37%) also received palliative chemotherapy. After inclusion of 19 patients, the study was ended prematurely because the safety threshold was exceeded. In total, 28 major complications occurred in 17 patients (89%). In 9 patients (47%), major complications were determined intervention-related (severe retrosternal pain with or without vomiting [n = 6], hematemesis [n = 1], recurrent dysphagia [n = 2]. Dysphagia scores decreased significantly from a median of 3 (IQR 3-4) to a median of 1 (IQR 0-3) after 1 month (P < .001). Despite adequate luminal patency in 17 patients (89%), normal diet could not be tolerated in 7 patients (37%) because of retrosternal pain and vomiting. Lack of routine endoscopy or contrast esophagram to evaluate recurrent dysphagia during follow-up. Despite restoration of luminal patency, a combined treatment of brachytherapy and biodegradable stent placement cannot be recommended for the palliative treatment of esophageal cancer because of an unacceptably high intervention-related major complication rate. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Occurrence of organophosphorus flame retardants in indoor dust in multiple microenvironments of southern China and implications for human exposure.
Organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) are important alternatives to brominated flame retardants (BFRs), but information on their contamination of the environment in China is rare. We examined the occurrence of 12 OPFRs in indoor dust in four microenvironments of southern China, including a rural electronic waste (e-waste) recycling area, a rural non-e-waste area, urban homes, and urban college dormitory rooms. The OPFR concentrations (with a median of 25.0 μg g(-1)) were highest in the e-waste area, and the concentrations in other three areas were lower and comparable (7.48-11.0 μg g(-1)). The levels of OPFRs in the present study were generally relatively lower than the levels of OPFRs found in Europe, Canada, and Japan because BFRs are still widely used as the major FRs in China. The composition profile of OPFRs in the e-waste area was dominated by tricresyl phosphate (TCP) (accounting for 40.7%, on average), while tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) was the most abundant OPFR (64.4%) in the urban areas (homes and college dormitories). These two distribution patterns represent two OPFR sources (i.e., emissions from past e-waste and from current household products and building materials). The difference in the OPFR profiles in the rural area relative to the OPFR profiles in the urban and e-waste areas suggests that the occurrence of OPFRs is due mainly to emissions from characteristic household products in rural homes. Although human exposures to all the OPFRs were under the reference doses, the health risk for residents in the e-waste area is a concern, considering the poor sanitary conditions in this area and exposure from other sources. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analysis of APL1beta28, a surrogate marker for Alzheimer Abeta42, indicates altered precision of gamma-cleavage in the brains of Alzheimer disease patients.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Currently, therapeutic intervention after the disease onset is difficult because progressive neuronal death precedes clinical symptoms. Available medicines for AD, such as AchE inhibitors, transiently slow the progression of the dementia symptoms, but they do not inhibit the pathological process. At present, next generation anti-AD drugs are in development in many pharmaceutical companies. Importantly, most of them are to inhibit the progress of the pathological process and, thus, at the same time, the establishment of a highly probable prediction of future AD onset is inseparable. AD is now diagnosed using clinical criteria coupled with brain imaging systems such as SPECT and PET. To diagnose AD cases before the appearance of clinical symptoms, it will be necessary to (a) establish new, more sensitive clinical criteria, (b) develop methods for detecting the pathological accumulation of proteins (e.g. Abeta) in the brain, or (c) develop biomarkers for predicting the accumulation of Abeta/tau in the brain. Our recent discovery of APL1beta28, a possible biomarker of AD, may help in the development of early detection methods for AD. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Swim Fins-Adding Splash to the Laps.
In the sport of swimming, floating doesn't count-swimmers have to work long and hard for the cardiovascular benefits. To make those workouts a little more enjoyable, swim fins are on the market, propelling swimmers through the water faster and adding a kick to the sport. But swimmers may not be getting all the benefits that they expect from these fins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
RhoC/ROCK2 promotes vasculogenic mimicry formation primarily through ERK/MMPs in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) results in the formation of an alternative circulatory system that can improve the blood supply to multiple malignant tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the potential mechanisms of RhoC/ROCK in VM have not yet been investigated in HCC. Here, RhoC expression was upregulated in HCC tissues, especially the VM-positive (VM+) group, compared to noncancerous tissues (P < 0.01), and patients with high expression of RhoC had shorter survival times (P < 0.001). The knockdown of RhoC via short hairpin RNA (shRNA) in SK-Hep-1 cells significantly decreased VM formation and cell motility. In contrast, cell motility and VM formation were remarkably enhanced when RhoC was overexpressed in HepG2 cells. To further assess the potential role of ROCK1 and ROCK2 on VM, we stably knocked down ROCK1 or ROCK2 in MHCC97H cells. Compared to ROCK1 shRNA, ROCK2 shRNA could largely affect VM formation, cell motility and the key VM factors, as well as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, p-ERK, p-MEK, p-FAK, p-paxillin, MT1-MMP and MMP2 levels were clearly altered following the overexpression of RhoC, but ROCK2 shRNA had little effect on the expression of p-FAK, which indicated that RhoC regulates FAK/paxillin signaling, but not through ROCK2. In conclusion, our results show that RhoC/ROCK2 may have a major effect on VM in HCC via ERK/MMPs signaling and might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
General versus regional anaesthesia and platelet aggregation in minor surgery.
In order to evaluate the impact of minor surgery on platelet aggregability and the effect of anaesthesia on this parameter, we allocated 14 otherwise healthy men for inguinal herniotomy to either general anaesthesia (n = 7) or lumbar epidural anaesthesia (n = 7). Platelet aggregation threshold to adenosine diphosphate (ADP-threshold) was measured before and after anaesthesia, prior to surgery, at the end of surgery and during the following hours as well as on the first post-operative morning. General anaesthesia did not affect ADP-threshold while epidural analgesia itself induced a significant increase. During and soon after surgery the ADP-threshold increased in those receiving general anaesthesia while in those receiving epidural analgesia the ADP-threshold returned to pre-operative levels. On the first post-operative morning both groups showed a significantly lower ADP-threshold as compared to the pre-operative level. Surgery induced an increase in 3'5' cyclic-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This adrenergic response was attenuated by epidural analgesia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Remote just-in-time telementored trauma ultrasound: a double-factorial randomized controlled trial examining fluid detection and remote knobology control through an ultrasound graphic user interface display.
Remote-telementored ultrasound involves novice examiners being remotely guided by experts using informatic-technologies. However, requiring a novice to perform ultrasound is a cognitively demanding task exacerbated by unfamiliarity with ultrasound-machine controls. We incorporated a randomized evaluation of using remote control of the ultrasound functionality (knobology) within a study in which the images generated by distant naive examiners were viewed on an ultrasound graphic user interface (GUI) display viewed on laptop computers by mentors in different cities. Fire-fighters in Edmonton (101) were remotely mentored from Calgary (n = 65), Nanaimo (n = 19), and Memphis (n = 17) to examine an ultrasound phantom randomized to contain free fluid or not. Remote mentors (2 surgeons, 1 internist, and 1 ED physician) were randomly assigned to use GUI knobology control during mentoring (GUIK+/GUIK-). Remote-telementored ultrasound was feasible in all cases. Overall accuracy for fluid detection was 97% (confidence interval = 91 to 99%) with 3 false negatives (FNs). Positive/negative likelihood ratios were infinity/0.0625. One FN occurred with the GUIK+ and 2 without (GUIK-). There were no statistical test performance differences in either group (GUIK+ and GUIK-). Ultrasound-naive 1st responders can be remotely mentored with high accuracy, although providing basic remote control of the knobology did not affect outcomes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Insulin secretion in normal glucose-tolerant relatives of type 2 diabetic subjects. Assessments using hyperglycemic glucose clamps and oral glucose tolerance tests.
To assess insulin secretion in normal glucose-tolerant Caucasian first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetes subjects and in matched normal glucose-tolerant control subjects and to compare insulin secretion as assessed using a hyperglycemic glucose clamp with insulin secretion as assessed using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Twenty-one first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetic subjects and 21 control subjects without a family history of type 2 diabetes, who were matched for sex, age, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and aerobic capacity, underwent a hyperglycemic glucose clamp (10 mmol/l, 180 min). An OGTT (75 g glucose in 300 ml water) was also performed. First-phase insulin release (plasma insulin, 0-10 min) was not different (multiple analysis of variance [MANOVA]: F = 2.63, P = 0.11). Second-phase insulin release was lower (MANOVA: F = 4.18, P = 0.047). Separate analyses of variance showed decreased plasma insulin levels from 120 min onward (all P < 0.05), decreasing to geometric mean (95% CI) levels of 330 (270-402) and 462 (366-582) pmol/l at 180 min in relatives and control subjects, respectively. The insulin sensitivity index (ISI) as assessed using a hyperglycemic clamp was not different between the two groups. Mean +/- SE ISI during the 3rd hour was 27.5 +/- 2.2 and 30.5 +/- 3.0 micrograms.kg-1.min-1.pmol-1.l-1 in relatives and control subjects, respectively (P > 0.20). At 90 min after the OGTT, log plasma insulin levels correlated significantly with second-phase insulin release as assessed using the hyperglycemic glucose clamp. Normal glucose-tolerant first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetic subjects have a decreased second-phase insulin release, compared with matched control subjects. After an OGTT, 90-min values of log plasma insulin and 90-min values of the ratio of log plasma insulin to blood glucose may be good indicators of insulin secretory properties in normal glucose-tolerant family members of type 2 diabetic subjects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The distribution of biomedical research resources and international justice.
According to some estimates, less than 10% of the world's biomedical research funds are dedicated to addressing problems that are responsible for 90% of the world's burden of disease. This paper explains why this disparity exists and what should be done about it. It argues that the disparity exists because: 1) multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies do not regard research and development investments on the health problems of developing nations to be economically lucrative; and 2) governmental agencies that sponsor biomedical research face little political pressure to allocate funds for the problems of developing nations. This paper argues that developed nations have an obligation to address disparities related to biomedical research funding. To facilitate this effort, developed countries should establish a trust fund dedicated to research on the health problems of developing nations similar to the Global AIDS Fund. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Marfan syndrome - features, natural history and treatment options - our experiences.
The Marfan syndrome (MFS) is one of the most common (1:3000-1:4000) heritable connective tissue disorders. It's still a rarely diagnosed syndrome, especially in childhood. Near all cases MFS results from mutations in the fibrillin-1 (FBN1) gene on chromosome 15q21.1, which encodes for the glycoprotein fibrillin. The FBN1 gene is a large protein that can cause more than 500 mutations and molecular examinations, finally confirming the diagnosis, are conducted extremely rare. We present prospective data concerning 66 patients with clinically-diagnosed MFS who have been controlled in Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Diseases Medical University in Gdansk in 2000 - 2010. 29 patients (44%) had mitral valve regurgitations, 19 (29%) aneurysmal dilatation of the aorta, 13 (20%) had both these irregularities. In 7 cases (11%) diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse preceded appearance of an aneurysmal dilalation of the aortic bulb. During the observation 11 patients (17%) underwent cardiosurgical procedures for the sake of stopping crucial progressive mitral valve dysfunction and/or aneurysmal dilatation of the aortic bulb, which threatened with a rupture of aortic aneurysm. In 39 cases (59%) prophylactic treatment with beta - blockers was administered. The patients with MFS need a multidisciplinary system of care and the psychological supporting. The cardiosurgical treatment, which nowadays is bringing better results, due to the technological advancements is a new hope for this patient population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical features of arterial hypertension in men and women (according to the National Registry of Arterial Hypertension).
The purpose of this study is to study the effect of sex on the features of therapy of arterial hypertension and the development of cardiovascular complications. Data from the register of AH from outpatient hospital and cardiology departments of hospitals of 22 regions of the Russian Federation were analyzed. Data of medical documents of 33 564 patients with AH [(36.2%) men and 21 423 (63.8%) women] were entered into the on-line computer program and were analyzed using the statistical software package STATISTICA 10. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases are more often diagnosed in men: peripheral artery disease, coronary heart disease, acute coronary syndrome, congestive heart failure, ischemic stroke, dissecting aortic aneurysm. The beginning of development cardiovascular disease in men with elevated blood pressure is already observed at age of 25-44 years, which indicates the need for preventive measures already in adolescence and closer monitoring of treatment at a young age. The study confirmed the role of the male sex as a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease in hypertensive men and women with comparable figures of blood pressure in. Identified gender features must be considered when diagnosing patients with AH. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Review: NAD +: a modulator of immune functions.
Latterly, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) has emerged as a molecule with versatile functions and of enormous impact on the maintenance of cell integrity. Besides playing key roles in almost all major aspects of energy metabolism, there is mounting evidence that NAD+ and its degradation products affect various biological activities including calcium homeostasis, gene transcription, DNA repair, and intercellular communication. This review is aimed at giving a brief insight into the life cycle of NAD+ in the cell, referring to synthesis, action and degradation aspects. With respect to their immunological relevance, the importance and function of the major NAD+ metabolizing enzymes, namely CD38/CD157, ADP-ribosyltransferases (ARTs), poly-ADP-ribose-polymerases (PARPs), and sirtuins are summarized and roles of NAD+ and its main degradation product adenosine 5'-diphosphoribose (ADPR) in cell signaling are discussed. In addition, an outline of the variety of immunological processes depending on the activity of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt), the key enzyme of the salvage pathway of NAD+ synthesis, is presented. Taken together, an efficient supply of NAD+ seems to be a crucial need for a multitude of cell functions, underlining the yet only partly revealed potency of this small molecule to influence cell fate. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synthesis of lambda 1, lambda 2, and lambda 3 light chains by mouse spleen B cells.
To determine whether the infrequency of immunoglobulins with lambda 3 light chains is due to a corresponding scarcity of lambda 3 B cells, the production of the various lambda chain subtypes (lambda 1, lambda 2, and lambda 3) by normal spleen cells was compared. The results showed that lambda 1, lambda 2, and lambda 3 chains are produced in a ratio of about 1.0: 0.7 : 0.3, respectively. The argument is made that lambda 1, lambda 2, and lambda 3 B cells exist in the same ratio. Results obtained with neonatal and nude mouse spleen cells suggest that these small differences are not due to stimulatory effects of environmental antigens or regulatory T cells. The much greater disparity in the abundance of lambda subtypes in various antibody responses and serum Ig suggests that lambda 1 B cells may be more likely than lambda 2 or lambda 3 B cells to differentiate into antibody-secreting plasma cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Palmitic acid follows a different metabolic pathway than oleic acid in human skeletal muscle cells; lower lipolysis rate despite an increased level of adipose triglyceride lipase.
Development of insulin resistance is positively associated with dietary saturated fatty acids and negatively associated with monounsaturated fatty acids. To clarify aspects of this difference we have compared the metabolism of oleic (OA, monounsaturated) and palmitic acids (PA, saturated) in human myotubes. Human myotubes were treated with 100μM OA or PA and the metabolism of [(14)C]-labeled fatty acid was studied. We observed that PA had a lower lipolysis rate than OA, despite a more than two-fold higher protein level of adipose triglyceride lipase after 24h incubation with PA. PA was less incorporated into triacylglycerol and more incorporated into phospholipids after 24h. Supporting this, incubation with compounds modifying lipolysis and reesterification pathways suggested a less influenced PA than OA metabolism. In addition, PA showed a lower accumulation than OA, though PA was oxidized to a relatively higher extent than OA. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that 24h of PA treatment upregulated lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation and downregulated oxidative phosphorylation compared to OA. The differences in lipid accumulation and lipolysis between OA and PA were eliminated in combination with eicosapentaenoic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acid). In conclusion, this study reveals that the two most abundant fatty acids in our diet are partitioned toward different metabolic pathways in muscle cells, and this may be relevant to understand the link between dietary fat and skeletal muscle insulin resistance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Size distribution of DNA molecules recovered from non-denaturing filter elution.
DNA fragments removed from the filter during non-denaturing filter elution were collected and loaded on top of neutral sucrose gradients. Their size distribution was determined by low-speed centrifugation in neutral sucrose gradients. The average size of eluted DNA was found to be approximately 110 S, yet the average size of DNA collected after short elution times was found to be slightly larger than that after long elution times. It is concluded that the size of eluted DNA fragments is not correlated with their elution rate, and it is proposed that shear forces generated at the pores of the filter cause degradation of the DNA. A comparison of the sedimentation profiles of carefully prepared cellular DNA before and after elution revealed that the generated shear forces during elution break down the DNA to an extent equivalent to around 20,000 DNA double-strand breaks (dsb) per G1 cell. The size of DNA fragments decreased with increasing radiation dose; however, five times more dsb were found than expected after exposure to radiation alone. It is proposed that this excess of dsb may derive from the transformation of other radiation-induced lesions to dsb under the action of the shear forces generated during elution. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hydride Complexes: The chemistry and current significance of covalent hydrogen compounds of transition metals are discussed.
Hydride complexes of transition metals were virtually unknown 12 years ago, but they have now been found to lie at the root of many interesting catalytic chemical reactions, some of which were used in industry even before the unique properties of hydride complexes, which formed their basis, had been realized. This article surveys the history, preparations, important properties, and reactions of hydride complexes, surveys their part in important catalytic industrial processes, and speculates about their possible role in the biological fixation of nitrogen. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Fungal flora in chicken stalls and its etiopathogenic importance for humans and animals].
In order to find out the mycoflora prevailing in chicken pens, and to appreciate the health hazards for employees (incl. veterinarians) and animals, twenty litter samples and 6 sedimented dust trials were analysed mycologically. The following results were found: Bedding and dust samples all contained between 3.57 and 1.30 x 10(7) c.f.u./g DW. The commonest fungus is A. fumigatus with 3.41 x 10(4) - 1.30 x 10(7) c.f.u./g DW in bedding and 2.70 x 10(5) - 3.30 x 10(6) c.f.u./g DW in sedimented dust. In addition, the following fungal spp. were detected (in c.f.u./g DW): Scopulariopsis brevicaulis (3.57 x 10(3) - 6.50 x 10(7)), Pseudallescheria boydii (2.70 x 10(6)), A. flavus group (up to 8.41 x 10(5)), A. clavatus (6.00 x 10(5)), Candida albicans (4.88 x 10(5)), Alternaria spp. (4.49 x 10(5)), Penicillium spp. (up to 1.06 x 10(5)), A. terreus (8.47 x 10(4)), A. versicolor group (up to 8.44 x 10(4)), A. niger (5.93 x 10(4)), Aureobasidium sp. (3.96 x 10(3)), Mucor circinelloides (3.42 x 10(3)), Phialophora sp. (1.30 x 10(3)), C. pseudoiropicalis (4.04 x 10(2)), A. nidulans (3.90 x 10(2)), Acremonium sp. (3.55 x 10(2)), M. racemosus (1.19 x 10(2)). Negligible was the detected level of Chrysosporium pannorum (84.10), Rhizomucor pusillus (81.00), Beauveria alba (59.60), C. tropicalis (40.40), Trichoderma sp. (4.70), A. flavipes (4.38). Dermatophytes were not found. The fungal spectrum was broader in the dust than in litter samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular identification, morphological characterization and new insights into the ecology of larval Pseudoterranova cattani in fishes from the Argentine coast with its differentiation from the Antarctic species, P. decipiens sp. E (Nematoda: Anisakidae).
Larvae of the genus Pseudoterranova constitute a risk for human health when ingested through raw or undercooked fish. They can provoke pseudoterranovosis in humans, a fish-borne zoonotic disease whose pathogenicity varies with the species involved, making their correct specific identification a necessary step in the knowledge of this zoonosis. Larvae of Pseudoterranova decipiens s.l. have been reported in several fish species from off the Argentine coasts; however, there are no studies dealing with their specific identification in this region. Here, a genetic identification and morphological characterization of larval Pseudoterranova spp. from three fish species sampled from Argentine waters and from Notothenia coriiceps from Antarctic waters was carried out. Larvae were sequenced for their genetic/molecular identification, including the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (mtDNA cox2), the first (ITS-1) and the second (ITS-2) internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA, and compared with all species of the P. decipiens (sensu lato) species complex (sequences available in GenBank). Further, adults of Pseudoterranova spp. from the definitive host, the southern sea lion, Otaria flavescens, from Argentine and Chilean coasts were sequenced at the same genes. The sequences obtained at the ITS-1 and ITS-2 genes from all the larvae examined from fish of Argentine waters, as well as the adult worms, matched 100% the sequences for the species P. cattani. The sequences obtained at mtDNA cox2 gene for Antarctic larvae matched 99% those available in GenBank for the sibling P. decipiens sp. E. Both MP and BI phylogenetic trees strongly supported P. cattani and P. decipiens sp. E as two distinct phylogenetic lineages and depicted the species P. decipiens sp. E as sister taxon to the remaining taxa of the P. decipiens complex. Larval morphometry was similar between specimens of P. cattani from Argentina, but significantly different from those of P. decipiens sp. E, indicating that larval forms can be distinguished based on their morphology. Pseudoterranova cattani is common and abundant in a variety of fish species from Chile, whereas few host species harbour these larvae in Argentina where they show low levels of parasitism. This pattern could arise from a combination of factors, including environmental conditions, density and dietary preferences of definitive hosts and life-cycle pathways of the parasite. Finally, this study revealed that the life-cycle of P. cattani involves mainly demersal and benthic organisms, with a marked preference by large-sized benthophagous fish. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization on ablation performance of various surgical fibers.
Laser light has been widely used as a surgical tool to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Various surgical parameters still need to be tested and optimized to accomplish better clinical outcomes. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the effect of fiber core size on ablation performance at various laser power levels. Three optical fibers (600, 775, and 850 μm) were tested in vitro with a customized 532-nm laser system with power ranging from 120 to 180 W. Ablation performance was evaluated in light of total energy, irradiance, and volumetric energy density. Irrespective fiber size, crater dimension, and ablation volume linearly increased with the incident irradiance. However, each fiber created different geometry of ablation craters (i.e., deep columnar shape for 600 μm vs. shallow funnel shape for 850 μm). Smaller fiber size demonstrated the efficient energy usage for tissue removal. In-depth comprehension of fiber performance can help accomplish predictable and efficient surgical procedures for BPH therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Continuing care of patients with cardiovascular risk in general practice: patients with dyslipidemia and their care].
The role of dyslipidemia is essential in the development of atherosclerosis, therefore continuing care of dyslipidemic patients is an extremely important task in cardiovascular prevention. This study was aimed to investigate continuing care of dyslipidemic patients in general practices. Method of the study was a questionnaire survey, 397 patients of 39 general practices were involved into the study. The cause of their continuing care was hypercholesterolemia in 91.7%, hypertriglyceridemia in 69%, decreased HDL-C in 18.4%, and these alterations frequently occurred together. Hypertension in 77%, disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism in 41.7%, increased BMI in 43.2% were found. Patients were smokers in 26.5%, given up smoking in 13.2%. They had cardiovascular problems in 56.5%, cerebrovascular problems in 18.6% and peripheral vascular ones in 20.3%. Patients were treated with lipid lowering drugs in 87.7%, statins were used in 81.7%, fibrates in 29.6% and both of them in 11.5%. The main results of continuing care were: in the whole group frequency of cholesterol level > 5.2 mmol/l decreased by 13%, frequency of triglyceride level >1.7 mmol/l decreased by 4%; cholesterol target values were reached in 3% of patients with high cardiovascular risk, in 22.2% of patients with medium risk, and in 66.7% of patients with mild risk. These results suggest that there is a need for more intensive drug treatment of dyslipidemic patients to reach the target lipid levels, and for regular assessment of continuing care of these patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sharps injuries and job burnout: a cross-sectional study among nurses in China.
The present study investigated the relationship between sharps injuries and job burnout in nurses. Sharps injury questionnaires and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) questionnaires were used to investigate and analyze job burnout among 468 nurses, of which 458 effective questionnaires were collected, for a response rate of 97.86%. A total of 292 nurses had at least one sharps injury (63.76% of the 458 nurses). The dimension scores were higher for injured nurses compared with non-injured nurses. The difference between the dimensions of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization for nurses with sharps injuries was statistically significant (P < 0.05). A rank correlation analysis showed that these two dimensions had a positive correlation with sharps injuries (r = 0.69-0.78). The prevalence of sharps injuries in nursing is associated with depersonalization, as measured by the MBI. Nursing administrators should pay more attention to clinically burned-out nurses, and provide more opportunity to nurses for training and education to reduce the prevalence of sharps injuries. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Airway inflammation in cystic fibrosis: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications.
Airway epithelial cells and immune cells participate in the inflammatory process responsible for much of the pathology found in the lung of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Intense bronchial neutrophilic inflammation and release of proteases and oxygen radicals perpetuate the vicious cycle and progressively damage the airways. In vitro studies suggest that CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-deficient airway epithelial cells display signalling abnormalities and aberrant intracellular processes which lead to transcription of inflammatory mediators. Several transcription factors, especially nuclear factor-κB, are activated. In addition, the accumulation of abnormally processed CFTR in the endoplasmic reticulum results in unfolded protein responses that trigger 'cell stress' and apoptosis leading to dysregulation of the epithelial cells and innate immune function in the lung, resulting in exaggerated and ineffective airway inflammation. Measuring airway inflammation is crucial for initiating treatment and monitoring its effect. No inflammatory biomarker predictive for the clinical course of CF lung disease is currently known, although neutrophil elastase seems to correlate with lung function decline. CF animal models mimicking human lung disease may provide an important insight into the pathogenesis of lung inflammation in CF and identify new therapeutic targets. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Leishmanin skin test in clinical and subclinical kala-azar cases.
Leishmanin skin test was done on 25 active kala-azar (KA) patients, 41 healthy persons residing with KA patients and 14 treated cases of KA. All active cases of KA were Leishmanin test negative. Nine out of 41 (21.9 per cent) healthy household members gave positive reaction to Leishmanin antigen. These persons were previously exposed to Leishmania donovani infection which was overcome by developing cell mediated immunity. The infection in these persons remained subclinical or asymptomatic. This shows that all L. donovani infections do not progress to clinical stage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Changes in cervical fibronectin levels during pregnancy, labor and in the postpartum period].
The authors analysed the fibronectin content of the uterine cervix during pregnancy and delivery. The aim of their investigation was furnishing data to the biochemical changes during cervical maturation. The ripening of the uterine cervix during pregnancy is a result of complicated interactions between different macromolecules, where the fibronectin plays a key role. The quantitative determination of the extracellular matrix fibronectin is impossible because its extraction from tissues recently is not solved. Taking this fact in consideration the authors choose a semiquantitative method, being reliable indicator of changes in fibronectin content of uterine cervix. They took small pieces of materials from portio vaginalis uteri of 139 women being in postmenopause and premenopause, in different stages of pregnancy and parturition concerning directly after delivery. The slides were incubated, with rabbit-anti-human fibronectin-FITC. The evaluation of fluorescence happened with an Axiophot (Zeiss) microscope. Authors stated that the fibronectin content in the cervical extracellular matrix and in the cellular membrane of fibroblasts increases during the 1st trimester pregnancy. This increase can be shown in the 3rd trimester as well and it drops significantly during delivery. They could not found any relationship between the leucocyte invasion observed during delivery and the changes of cervical fibronectin content. These observations call our attention to the importance of fibronectin in cervical ripening respectively dilatation and the need of further examinations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ageing of human glial cells in culture: increase in the fraction of non-dividers as demonstrated by a minicloning technique.
A minicloning technique was used to analyse quantitatively the fraction of cells incapable of division in mass populations of human glial cells at various passage levels. The percentage of non-dividers rose from 18 to 73% between passages 11 and 40 at which further subcultivation of the mass culture became impossible. The non-dividers were predominantly arrested in G1; only a minor fraction of G2 arrested cells was established. Although not conclusive, the data suggest that commitment to irreversible loss of division potential increases as a function of the number of completed cell cycles which a glial cell has completed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sex differences in creation of do-not-resuscitate orders for critically ill elderly patients following emergency surgery.
Emergency surgery patients are older, often critically ill, and at high risk of morbidity and mortality. We studied factors associated with issuance of a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order and impact on morbidity and mortality in emergency surgery patients. Prospective study of all patients since January 1, 2000 who underwent emergency surgery before admission to the intensive care unit. Data collected were: age, sex, admission diagnosis (case-mix), raw- (AIII) and age-adjusted (aAIII) APACHE III scores, issuance of a DNR order, and morbidity and mortality. Primary outcomes were DNR status and morbidity and mortality. Groups were stratified by age (patients >75 years versus younger) and sex. Statistics were calculated by chi(2) test, analysis of variance, and logistic regression. In all, 723 emergency surgery patients (gastrointestinal: 35%; traumatic: 20%; neurologic: 17%) met study criteria and had morbidity and mortality of 17.8% (AIII-predicted: 31%). Ninety-two patients (12%) were made DNR, of whom 82.6% died. Women received DNR status more often (16.4% versus 9.5%, p < 0.01) but morbidity and mortality was the same for women and men (18.2% versus 17.5%, p = 0.85). By logistic regression, sex most predicted new DNR status (odds ratio [OR] 2.512, p = 0.005) compared with Multiple Organ Dysfunction score (OR 1.410, p < 0.0001), Age (OR 1.054, p < 0.0001) and aAIII (OR 0.995, 0.355), with goodness of fit of 3.876 (p = 0.868) and Nagelkerke R(2) of 0.511. Percent correct was 88.9, implying good discrimination. Female sex and, to a lesser extent, age were associated with issuance of DNR in series of patients who received emergency surgery. The association of DNR with female sex is an unexpected finding and may indicate clinician bias and necessitate the performance of further analysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of cementing agent and technique on the retention of a CeraOne gold cylinder: a pilot study.
Endosseous dental implants are routinely used for the replacement of missing teeth. The CeraOne system uses a gold cylinder that is luted to a metal abutment. This study evaluated two luting agents and two luting techniques on the retention of a CeraOne gold cylinder to a CeraOne titanium abutment. A mechanical testing instrument was used to provide an uniaxial tensile force on the gold cylinder, which was cemented with zinc phosphate or Tempbond NE. The access opening to the gold abutment screw was filled or unfilled. Filling the access opening resulted in significantly higher retentive values (P < 0.01) compared to leaving the access opening unfilled. The gold cylinder was significantly more retentive when cemented with zinc phosphate as compared with Tempbond NE (P < 0.01). A Tukey post hoc test demonstrated that all means were significantly different at the P = 0.01 level. The results suggest that the choice of luting agent and luting technique may affect retention of a CeraOne gold cylinder. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Childhood leukemias].
Acute leukemias of childhood differ considerably from the adult type with regard to clinical and laboratory findings as well as prognosis (Tables 1-3). Therapeutic progress (Table 4) within the last two decades has resulted not only in remarkable palliation, but increasingly also in true cure. However, this development appears to be far from complete, and to think in terms of a definitive scheme of treatment is therefore misleading and dangerous. On the contrary, work in cooperative study groups aiming at further therapeutic improvement must continue. All children with leukemia in Switzerland may benefit from the advances offered by such studies if they are initially admitted to one of our centers of pediatric oncology. Further control and follow-up, however, can continue to be carried out on a decentralized basis by practicing pediatricians and hematologists. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The use of sound during exercise to assist development for children with and without movement difficulties.
To identify and review the literature on the role of sound in facilitating movement and development. The emphasis was to consider the role of sound during exercise and rehabilitation and to encourage researchers to further explore the role of sound in movement development and rehabilitation. A review of key and relevant literature was conducted. Data related to the proof-of-concept of a ball emitting broadband sound to enhance motor development in children with and without movement disorders is presented. Analyses of the data indicated an interaction between group and block of training (p <or= 0.05). Scores indicated that there was no effect of training on the pre- and post-scores for the non-sound group or the control group. However, there was significant effect of training on pre- and post-scores for the group using a ball emitting broadband sound. Preliminary results indicate skill development can be enhanced by the use of broadband sound in balls and further research is required. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Danish Medical Birth Registry.
The Danish Medical Birth Registry (MBR) was established in 1968 and has been computerized since 1973. The primary purpose of the registration is to monitor the health of the newborns and of the quality of the antenatal and delivery care services, but the registry is increasingly being used in research. Major changes in registration have taken place in 1978 and 1991. The paper describes the content and usage of the MBR over time and suggests research topics for the future. A broad scope of studies illustrates how the MBR has been used, either as single data source, linked with data from other registries or with data from interviews or self-completed questionnaires. Validations have shown variations in the quality of data, depending on source, and have underlined the need for constant quality control. Any access to data at the individual level is subjected to special provisions laid down by the Data Surveillance Authority and also requires a permission from the National Board of Health. The time from conception to early childhood is an important period concerning future health for the individual. The Danish Medical Birth Registry is a valuable tool in this respect, which has not yet been used to its full potential in research or monitoring. Experience indicates that the quality of the registry depends upon having a close link to the staff responsible for delivery services and thus having the necessary specialised skills and interest. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Non-surgical management of bile duct stones.
Endoscopic sphincterotomy with stone extraction is the non-surgical method of choice for treatment of choledocholithiasis in patients unfit for surgery or with previous cholecystectomy. Its success rate is 85-90%. Many adjunctive methods have been developed to increase the clearance rate after initial failure and are reviewed in this paper. Collaboration among the surgeon, endoscopist and radiologist offers the patient a high opportunity for successful clearance of common bile duct (CBD) stones with the least morbidity and mortality. The application of endoscopic sphincterotomy combined with laparoscopic cholecystectomy to younger patients is now debated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tuning of the porin expression under anaerobic growth conditions by his-to-Asp cross-phosphorelay through both the EnvZ-osmosensor and ArcB-anaerosensor in Escherichia coli.
Widespread bacterial signal transduction circuits are generally referred to as 'two-component systems' or 'histidine (His)-to-aspartate (Asp) phosphorelays.' In Escherichia coli, as many as 30 distinct His-to-Asp phosphorelay signalling pathways operate in response to a wide variety of environmental stimuli, such as medium osmolarity and anaerobiosis. In this regard, it is of interest whether or not some of them together constitute a network of signalling pathways through a physiologically relevant mechanism (often referred to as 'cross-regulation'). We have addressed this issue, with special reference to the osmo-responsive EnvZ and anaero-responsive ArcB phosphorelay signalling pathways in E. coli. Under standard aerobic growth conditions, it is well known that the osmoregulatory profile of the outer membrane porins (OmpC and OmpF) is mainly regulated by the EnvZ-OmpR phosphorelay system in response to medium osmolarity. In this study, it was found that, under anaerobic growth conditions, E. coli cells exhibit a markedly altered expression profile of OmpC and OmpF This profile was significantly different from that observed for the cells grown aerobically. Results from extensive genetic studies showed that, under such anaerobic growth conditions, the arcB gene encoding the anaero-sensory His-kinase appears to be an auxiliary genetic determinant that regulates the expression profile of porins. We then provided several lines of in vivo and in vitro evidence, which taken together, supported the following conclusions. Under anaerobic growth conditions, porin expression is tuned not only by the authentic osmo-resposive EnvZ sensor, but also by the anaero-responsive ArcB sensor, in an OmpR-dependent manner. It is suggested that such ArcB-mediated cross-regulation plays a physiological role by integrating anaerobic respiratory signals into the porin regulation in E. coli anaerobiosis. The proposed model is a clear example of the interplay of two distinct His-to-Asp phosphorelay signalling pathways. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of endothelial progenitor cells in restenosis and progression of coronary atherosclerosis after percutaneous coronary intervention: a prospective study.
We prospectively investigated the relationship of circulating endothelial progenitor cells at time of percutaneous coronary intervention to the subsequent development of in-stent restenosis or progression of coronary atherosclerosis. Endothelial progenitor cells provide an endogenous repair mechanism of the dysfunctional endothelium and therefore can play a pathogenic role in coronary atherosclerosis. We studied 155 consecutive stable angina patients (92 men, age 60 +/- 11 years). All patients had flow cytometry the day before elective percutaneous coronary intervention in order to derive subpopulations of endothelial progenitor cells. A control group of 20 normal subjects was considered for comparison. At 8-month control angiography, 30 patients showed in-stent restenosis (restenosis group), 22 patients showed progression of coronary atherosclerosis (progression group), whereas the remaining 103 patients had neither in-stent restenosis nor progression of coronary atherosclerosis (stable group). Comparison of the 3 groups did not show any difference in risk factors, cardiac morphology and function, extension of coronary artery disease, and treatment. Absolute numbers of CD34+/KDR+/CD45- cells (i.e., progenitors of endothelial lineage) measured in the restenosis group (1.41 +/- 0.64 cells/microl) were significantly higher than in the progression, stable, and control groups (1.03 +/- 0.53 cells/microl, 1.07 +/- 0.46 cells/microl, and 0.95 +/- 0.44 cells/microl, respectively, p < 0.05). Similarly, CD133+/KDR+/CD45- cells (i.e., progenitors of endothelial cells at an earlier stage) were significantly higher in the restenosis (0.63 +/- 0.23 cells/microl) compared with progression, stable, and control groups (0.33 +/- 0.19 cells/microl, 0.41 +/- 0.32 cells/microl, and 0.36 +/- 0.15 cells/microl, respectively, p < 0.001). Also, numbers of CD14+/CD45+ cells (i.e., which have a role in angiogenesis via a paracrine effect) were significantly different among the restenosis, progression, stable, and control groups (0.72 +/- 0.56 cells/microl vs. 0.51 +/- 0.52 cells/microl vs. 0.28 +/- 0.54 cells/microl vs. 0.62 +/- 0.67 cells/microl, respectively, p < 0.05), whereas CD105+/CD45-/CD34- cells (i.e., which have a receptor for transforming growth factor-beta) were similar among groups. Patients with restenosis have higher numbers of subpopulations of endothelial progenitor cells that incorporate into endothelial cells or play a role in arteriogenesis compared with controls and patients with either progression of coronary atherosclerosis or stable disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Anti-inflammatory activity of ethyl acetate fraction of the seeds of Brucea Javanica.
The seeds of Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. (Yadanzi in Chinese) have been used for the treatment of inflammation, dysentery, malaria, and cancer in Chinese traditional medicine. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of Brucea javanica has not been fully elucidated. This study examined the anti-inflammatory activity of ethyl acetate fraction of the seeds of Brucea javanica (EA-BJ) in vitro and in vivo. The anti-inflammatory activity of EA-BJ and its ability to modulate the production of NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 macrophage were evaluated. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory activity of EA-BJ was also in vivo assayed by carrageenan induced paw edema in mice. In vitro assays showed remarkable anti-inflammatory activity of EA-BJ, through the inhibition of production of NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 inflammatory mediators and induction of production of IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokine. In vivo assays showed anti-inflammatory activity for decrement of the paw edema in carrageenan induced paw edema test. The results obtained in vitro and in vivo showed that possible anti-inflammatory effects of EA-BJ may be attributed to inhibition pro-inflammatory mediators production, NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 and to increase production of IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokine. The seeds of Brucea javanica may thus prove beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Method effects associated with negatively and positively worded items on the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12): results from a cross-sectional survey with a representative sample of Catalonian workers.
Recent studies into the factorial structure of the 12-item version of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) have shown that it was best represented by a single substantive factor when method effects associated with negatively worded (NW) items are considered. The purpose of the present study was to examine the presence of method effects, and their relationships with demographic covariates, associated with positively worded (PW) and/or NW items. A cross-sectional, observational study to compare a comprehensive set of confirmatory factor models, including method effects associated with PW and/or NW items with GHQ-12 responses. Representative sample of all employees living in Catalonia (Spain). 3050 participants (44.6% women) who responded the Second Catalonian Survey of Working Conditions. A confirmatory factor analysis showed that the best fitting model was a unidimensional model with two additional uncorrelated method factors associated with PW and NW items. Furthermore, structural equation modelling (SEM) revealed that method effects were differentially related to both the sex and age of the respondents. Individual differences related to sex and age can help to identify respondents who are prone to answering PW and NW items differently. Consequently, it is desirable that both the constructs of interest as well as the effects of method factors are considered in SEM models as a means of avoiding the drawing of inaccurate conclusions about the relationships between the substantive factors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A case of young diabetes and parasuicide.
Wolfram syndrome is a rare monogenic cause of juvenile onset diabetes mellitus. It is a non-autoimmune, insulin-deficient state with concurrent or consequent optic atrophy. Here we depict the case of a 16-year-old young girl afflicted with this condition, who presented with parasuicide on a background of depressive disorder. The aetiology of this presentation was attributable to multiple physical ailments and a genetic predisposition conferred by the disease-causing mutation for which she tested positive. She was managed with intensive insulin therapy and specific psychotherapy. Her case highlights the importance of recognising and addressing these comorbidities associated with Wolfram syndrome, so as to curtail disastrous consequences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Initiation of the blastogenic response of lymphocytes by hyperoptimal concentrations of concanavalin A.
The blastogenic response of human lymphocytes in vitro to hyperoptimal concentrations of concanavalin A (Con A) has been studied by means of volume spectroscopy (measuring cellular and nuclear volume), flow cytofluorometry (measuring cellular DNA content) and incorporation of [3H]thymidine ([3H]dThd). The optimal Con A dose with respect to [3H]dThd incorporation was about 30 micrograms/ml. In cultures given hyperoptimal doses, e.g. 100 micrograms/ml, [3H]dThd incorporation was strongly inhibited, whereas the number of cells entering S-phase and significantly increasing their cellular and nuclear volume was considerably larger than with 30 micrograms/ml. With 200 micrograms/ml Con A, which induced negligible [3H]dThd incorporation, the percentage of responding cells was even larger. Hence, doses of Con A, which were hyperoptimal with regard to [3H]dThd incorporation, induced blastogenic response, including DNA synthesis, in a larger percentage of the cells than did the optimal dose. However, in cultures with hyperoptimal Con A doses, the progression of the cell cycle stagnated mainly during S- and G2-phase and few cells completed mitosis. Thus, the blocking effect of hyperoptimal doses was not confined to any particular point of the cell cycle. The reduced [3H]dTd incorporation, seen with hyperoptimal doses, is attributed partly to a failure of this assay under such conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The ability of selected cladoceran species to utilize domestic wastewaters in Mexico City.
The population growth patterns of four cladocerans, viz. Alona rectangula, Ceriodaphnia dubia, Moina macrocopa and Daphnia pulex on wastewaters from a treatment plant at Iztacalco, Mexico City were analyzed in this study. Crude wastewater (tank A) did not support A. rectangula and all animals in the replicates died after 5 days. A. rectangula with partially treated wastewater (tank B) showed growth curves similar to controls where algal density was 1 x 10(6) cells ml(-1). With wastewater from tank C (last stage before treatment with purifying agents such as chlorine), the populations maintained a low density (7 ind. ml(-1)). In wastewaters from tanks A and B, C. dubia showed no positive population growth, but in water from tank C, they maintained a low density (2 ind. ml(-1)). D. pulex showed no positive growth in all replicates involving wastewater. Only in controls (diet of algae Chlorella), the population density increased with time. M. macrocopa showed higher population growth in crude wastewaters than controls. Partially treated wastewater from tank B also resulted in a greater population growth than in the controls. However, when wastewater from the tank C was used, the population declined after day 12. Under comparable conditions, A. rectangula reached much higher peak abundances (55 ind. ml(-1)) than the rest of the cladoceran species. The rates of population growth (r) of the tested cladoceran species followed trends similar to the peak population densities. A. rectangula had the highest growth rates (0.25 per day) in controls and from the wastewater from tank B. The r-values were negative for A. rectangula and C. dubia in crude wastewater. For M. macrocopa the r-values were higher (0.19) in crude wastewater than in algae (0.15). However, r-values of M. macrocopa became negative when cultured in treated wastewater from tank C. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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